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MATERIA MEDIOA 



PHARMACY, PHARMACOLOGY 



AND 



THERAPEUTICS 



A New Series of Manuals 

FOR 

Medical Students. 

Price of each Book, Cloth, $3.00; Leather, $3.50. 

No. 1. PRACTICAL SURGERY. Third Edition. Illustrated. 

A Manual for Students and Physicians. By Wm. J. Walsh am, m. d., As- 
sistant Surgeon to, and Demonstrator of Surgery in, St. Bartholomew's 
Hospital ; Surgeon to Metropolitan Free Hospital, London, etc. Thoroughly 
lllustiated witii 318 fine wood engravings. 748 pages. 

No. 2. WINCKEL'S DISEASES OF WOMEN. By Parvin. [Second 
Edition Illustrated. 

A new Text-Book, including Diseases of the Bladder and Urethra. By Dr. 
Winckel, Professor of Gynaecology, etc., Royal University of Munich. 
The translation edited by Theophilus Parvin, m. d., Professor of Ob- 
stetrics and Diseases of Women and Children, Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia. 152 Engravings, most of which are new. Enlarged, with 
many new Illustrations. 766 pages. 

No. 3. MIDWIFERY. Illustrated. 

By Alfred Lewis Galabin, m. a., m. d., Obstetric Physician to, and Lec- 
turer on Midwifery and the Diseases of Women at Guy's Hospital, London, 
etc. 227 Fine Engravings. 753 pages. 

No. 4. PHYSIOLOGY. Fifth Edition. Illustrated. 

By Gerald F. Yeo, m. d.,f. r. c. s., Professor of Physiology in King's 
College, London. Revised. 321 Carefully printed Illustrations, and a 
Glossary. 758 pages. 

No. 5. CHILDREN. Second Edition. 

By J. F. Goodhart, m. d., Physician to the Evelina Hospital for Children ; 
Assistant Physician, Guy's Hospital, London. American Edition. Revised 
and Edited by Louis Starr, m. d., Clinical Professor of Diseases of Children 
in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania; Physician to the 
Children's Hospital, Philadelphia. 50 Formulae, and directions for prepar- 
ing Artificial Human Milk, for the Artificial Digestion of Milk, etc. Second 
Edition, enlarged and re-arranged. 772 pages. 

No. 6. MATERIA MEDICA, PHARMACY, PHARMACOLOGY, AND 
THERAPEUTICS. 

A Handbook for Students. By Wm. Hale White, m. d., f. r. c. p., etc. 
Physician to and Lecturer on Materia Medica, Guy's Hospital ; Examiner 
in Materia Medica, Royal College of Physicians, London, etc. American 
Edition, Revised and Edited by Reynold W. Wilcox, m. a., m. d., Pro- 
fessor of Clinical Medicine at the New York Post-Graduate Medical School 
and Hospital ; Assistant Visiting Physician Bellevue Hospital, etc. 580 pages. 

No. 7. MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE AND TOXICOLOGY. Third 
Edition. 
By John J. Reese, m. d., Professor of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxi- 
cology, University of Pennsylvania, etc. Enlarged. 

No. 8. DISEASES OF THE EYE AND THEIR TREATMENT. Fourth 
Edition. Illustrated. 
A Handbook for Physicians and Students. By Henry R. Swanzy, a. m., 
m. b., f. r. c. s. 1., Surgeon to the National Eye and Ear Infirmary ; Oph- 
thalmic Surgeon to the Adelaide Hospital, Dublin. Thoroughly Revised. 
Enlarged. 176 Illustrations. 500 pages. 

*** Other Volumes in Preparation. A complete illustrated circular with sample 
pages sent free, upon application. 

Price of each Book, Cloth, $3.00; Leather, $3.50. 

P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO., Medical Publishers and Booksellers, 

1012 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. 



MATERIA MEDICA 



PHARMACY, PHARMACOLOGY 



AND 



THERAPEUTICS 



W. HALE WHITE, M. D., F. R. C. P. 

PHYSICIAN TO, AND LECTURER ON MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS AT, GUY'S 

HOSPITAL, LONDON; EXAMINER IN MATERIA MEDICA TO THE CONJOINT BOARD 

OF ENGLAND; AUTHOR OF A TEXT-BOOK OF GENERAL THERAPEUTICS 



EDITED BY 

REYNOLD W.3VILCOX, M. A., M. D, LL. D. 

PROFESSOR OF CLINICAL MEDICINE AT THE NEW YORK POST-GRADUATE MEDICAL SCHOOL 

AND HOSPITAL; ASSISTANT VISITING PHYSICIAN TO BELLEVUE HOSPITAL; FELLOW 

OF THE AMERICAN, AND OF THE NEW YORK ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, ETC. 

* 



/7J 



PHILADELPHIA 

P. BLAKISTON,' SON & CO. 

1012 WALNUT STREET 

1892 






Copyright, 1892, by 
P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO. 



Made by 

The Jas. B. Rodgers Printing Co. 

b'l & 54 N. Sixth Street, 

Philadelphia. 



1*^ 



in 



> -v 



•PREFACE 



In writing this book, I have derived help from the works 
of many authors, but especially from those of Mitchell Bruce, 
Lauder Brunton, Ringer, Shoemaker, Martindale and Westcott, 
Squire, and Elborne. 



. The Editor, in bringing this book into harmony with the 
United States Pharmacopoeia, has made free use of the w r orks 
of Potter, Wood, Hare, Bartholow, Biddle, and of the United 
States Dispensatory. 

The unofficinal preparations have received especial attention. 
For this section, he has consulted Lescher's Recent Materia 
Medica, Helbing's Modern Materia Medica, Davis' Pharma- 
cology of the Newer Materia Medica, and as well his own 
journal files, which comprise all the periodicals devoted to the 
subjects upon which this volume treats. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

Definitions 9 

Pharmacy 10 

Pharmacology and Therapeutics 30 

Prescribing 33 

Actions of Drugs 38 

Drugs acting on Processes outside the Body 39 

Drugs acting on the Blood 42 

Drugs acting on the Cardiac Mechanism 45 

Drugs acting on the Vessels 49 

Drugs acting on the Skin 54 

Drugs acting on the Urinary System 56 

Drugs acting on Bodily Heat 61 

Drugs acting on Respiration 63 

Drugs acting on the Digestive Apparatus 68 

Drugs acting on the Nervous and Muscular Systems . 87 

Drugs acting on the Organs of Generation 101 

Drugs acting on Metabolism 103 

Pharmacopclial Inorganic Materia Medica — 

Group I. Water 104 

II. The Alkaline Metals 108 

III. The Alkaline Earths 131 

IV. Lead, Silver, Zinc, Copper, Bismuth, Aluminium .... 140 
V. Iron and Manganese 154 

VI. Gold and Mercury 172 

VII. Arsenic, Antimony, Chromium 184 

VIII. Phosphorus 194 

7 



8 CONTENTS. 

FAGE. 

IX. Chlorine, Iodine, Bromine 198 

X. Sulphur 209 

XI. Acids 213 

XII. Carbon and its Compounds 223 

Pharmacopgeial Organic Vegetable Materia Medica — 

Group I. Drugs acting on the Nervous System 261 

II. Drugs acting on the Heart 318 

III. Drugs acting on the Respiratory Organs 337 

IV. Drugs which are Antiperiodic and Antipyretic 347 

V. Purgatives 366 

VI. Volatile Oils 391 

VII. Bitters 445 

VIII. Astringents 455 

IX. Demulcents 465 

X. Parasiticides 477 

XI. Diuretics 484 

XII. Drugs acting upon the Uterus 48J 

XIII. Colchicum 491 

XIV. Stearoptenes 494 

XV. Drugs containing Important Acids 498 

XVI. Flavoring Agents 504 

XVII. Coloring Agents , 508 

XVIII. Drugs whose Action is Mechanical 509 

XIX. Drugs whose Action is Unknown 513 

Pharmacg-pceial Organic Animal Materia Medica 522 

Appendix No. I. Non-Pharmacopceial Remedies (Officinal in B. P.) 534 

Appendix No. II. Non-Pharmacopceial Remedies . 565 

Appendix No. III. Vegetable Natural Orders 591 

Appendix No. IV. Latin Phrases used in Prescriptions ..... 597 

Index 599 



MATERIA MEDICA 
PHARMACY, PHARMACOLOGY 

AND 

THERAPEUTICS 



DEFINITIONS. 

Materia Medica is so wide a term that it is difficult to 
define. It includes the following; 

(a) Materia Medica proper, sometimes called 
Pharmacognosy. This is the knowledge of the natural 
history, physical characters, and chemical properties of 
drugs. 

(<£) Pharmacy. This is the science and art of the 
selection, preparation and combination of drugs. 

(V) Pharmacology. This is the science which 
treats of the action of drugs on the body both in health 
and disease. A subdivision of it is Pharmacodynamics, 
which is the science of the physiological action of drugs 
in health. The science which studies the effects of doses 
large enough to endanger life is Toxicology. 

(*/) Therapeutics is the science and art of allevi- 
ating or curing disease. Many authors do not include this 
under the term Materia Medica. Therapeutics is either — 
(i) Rational, when we have sufficient knowl- 
edge of the disease and the pharmacological action of 
2 9 



IO MATERIA MEDICA. 

the remedy to know why it should be of benefit, e.g. 
The use of digitalis for mitral disease. 

(2.) Empirical, when our knowledge is insuf- 
ficient to tell us why the remedy is efficient, e. g. The 
use of quinine for ague. 
Therapeutics ought not to be included in the term Materia 
Medica, for that treats only of drugs ; but Therapeutics, properly 
speaking, is concerned with all means of alleviation. 

General Therapeutics is a subdivision of Therapeutics; 
it is the science and art of alleviating disease by such remedies as 
are not drugs, e. g. diet, climate, baths, venesection, cupping, etc. 
In this work we shall consider only that part of Therapeutics 
which is concerned with drugs. 

A Pharmacopoeia is a book published by some authorized 
body, generally constituted by law. This book states how to 
prepare the medicines in common use and, the United States' 
Pharmacopoeia excepted, the doses in which they may safely be 
given. The pharmacopoeias and the authorities publishing them 
differ in different countries. The British Pharmacopoeia is 
published by the General Medical Council. The last edition 
appeared in 1885, and its supplement in 1890. The United 
States Pharmacopoeia is published by a convention consisting of 
delegates from incorporated Medical Societies, Medical Colleges, 
Colleges of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Societies, from the 
Medical officers of the Army, Navy, and Marine Hospital Service. 
The last edition appeared in 1882. As new drugs are discovered 
they are, if of use, included in new editions of the Pharmaco- 
poeia. Everything contained in the Pharmacopoeia is said to be 
" officinal." The abbreviation for "British Pharmacopoeia" is 
" B. P."; for "United States Pharmacopoeia" is "U. S. P." 

MATERIA MEDICA PROPER. 

As much of this as the student need know will be mentioned 

under each drug, 

PHARMACY. 

Pharmacy is for the most part carried out by the manufac- 
turing and dispensing chemist. The medical student should, 



PHARMACY. 1 1 

however, be acquainted with the simpler processes, as he often is 
obliged to perform them. They are best learned in the dispen- 
sary. An elementary knowledge of chemistry will enable him to 
understand most of the terms used in pharmacy, but the following 
should be noticed. 

Alkaloids are bodies having the following characteristics : 

(i) They are the active nitrogenous principles of organic bodies. 

(2) They are compound ammonias, that is to say, one or more atoms of 
hydrogen in ammonia (NH 3 ) are replaced by various radicals. 

(3) They combine with acids to form crystalline salts without the produc- 
tion of water. 

(4) They are alkaline, turning red litmus paper blue. 

(5) Very few are liquid, such as pilocarpine, conine, nicotine, sparteine. 

(6) The solid ones are colorless except berberine. 

(7) They are sparingly soluble in water, readily so in alcohol. 

(8) The solutions are intensely bitter. 

(9) They are closely related to pyridene, and some may be synthetically 
prepared from pyridene bases. 

Names of alkaloids terminate in English in ine (quinine), in Latin in ina 
(quinina). Examples in U. S. P. : Atropine, Morphine, Strychnine, &c. 

Glucosides are bodies which when acted upon by acids, or 
certain ferments, split up into glucose and other substances (alco- 
hols, aldehydes, phenols), different in each case. 

Names of glucosides terminate in English in in (Salicin), in Latin in 
inum (Salicinum). 

Examples in U. S. P. are ^alicinum, Picrotoxinum, Santoninum. 

Fixed Oils are ethers of the higher fatty acids which at 
ordinary temperatures remain liquid. The usual fatty acids 
entering into the composition of fixed oils are oleic, palmitic, and 
stearic. 

Example : Olive oil consists of a mixture of a combination of oleic 
acid (CjgH^OJ with glyceryl (C 3 H.) and palmitic acid (C 16 H 32 2 ) with gly- 
ceryl. That is to say, ordinary olive oil is a mixture of two oils having the 
formulae C 3 H 5 (C 18 H 33 2 ) 3 and C 3 H 5 (C 16 H 31 2 ) 3 respectively. When acted 
upon by caustic alkalies or metallic oxides they form soaps (oleates, palmitates, 
or stearates of metals) and glycerine. This process is called saponification, e.g. 
C 8 H5(C 18 H, 3 2 )3+3NaHO=3NaC 18 H 33 2 +C 3 H 5 (OH) s . 

Hard soap. Glycerine. 
Oleate of sodium. 



1 2 PHARMACY. 

Fixed Oils are obtained by expression from the fruits or seeds 
of plants, or from animal tissues. When pure they are usually 
yellow, they float on water, and cause a greasy mark on paper. 
They are called fixed because they cannot be distilled without 
decomposition. They are soluble in ether or chloroform. 

Those in U. S. P. are Oleum Amygdalae Expressum, Lini, Morrhuae, Olivae, 
Ricini, Tiglii. 

Fats are fixed oils which are solid at ordinary temperatures; 
if extracted' by expression, sufficient heat to melt them must be 
used. 

Examples in U. S. P. : Oleum Theobromae, Adeps. 

Volatile or Essential Oils only resemble fixed oils in 
being soluble in the same media. They do not leave a greasy 
mark on paper. They are mostly inflammable, and mostly lighter 
than water. They are highly aromatic, and sufficiently soluble 
in water to impart their odor and taste to it. They are prepared 
by distillation — that is, by passing a current of steam through the 
substance from which they are extracted, the steam is condensed, 
and the oil either floats to the top or sinks to the bottom of the 
water. Their composition varies very much. The simplest are 
mixtures of an elaeoptene with a stearoptene. 

Examples in U. S. P. : Oleum Anisi, Cinnamomi, Lavandulae, Terebinth- 
inae, &c. 

Elseoptenes are liquid hydrocarbons isomeric with terpene 
(C 10 H 16 ). 

Stearoptenes are oxidized hydrocarbons usually solid and 
crystalline. 

Those in U. S. P. are Camphora, Thymol. 

Resins are very complex bodies. They are among the pro- 
ducts of oxidization of volatile oils. They contain many indif- 
ferent substances and acids. They are soluble in alkalies, forming 
resin soaps. Hence the alkali in Tinctura Guaiaci Ammoniata, 
and Tinctura Valerianae Ammoniata. 

The U. S. P. resins are Resina Copaibae, Jalapae, Podophylli, and Scam- 
monii, Pix Burgundica, and Mastiche. 



PHARMACEUTICAL PROCESSES. 1 3 

Oleo-resins are solutions of resins in volatile oils. 

Those in U. S. P. are Oleo-resina Aspidii, Capsici, Cubebae, Lupulini, 
Piperis, Zingiberis. 

Balsams are mixtures of oleo-resins with benzoic acid or 
cinnamic acid, or with both. 

Those in U. S. P. are Benzoinum, Balsamum Peruvianum, Balsamum To- 
lutanum, Styrax. 

Gums are exudations from the stems of plants containing 
one or more of: 

(a) Arabin or soluble gums, e.g. Acacia. 

(b) Bassorin or partially soluble gums, e.g. Tragacantha. 

(c) Cerasin or insoluble gum. Solutions of gum are precipitated by al- 
cohol. 

Gum-resins are exudations from plants consisting of a mix- 
ture of gums and resins. When they are rubbed with water the 
gum dissolves, and the resin remains mechanically suspended in 
the solution. 

The U. S. P. gum-resins are Ammoniacum, Asafoetida, Cambogia, Galba- 
num, Myrrha, and Scammonium. 

An Emulsion consists of finely divided particles of an oil, 
fat, or resin suspended in a liquid having a high specific gravity. 
When a heavy powder, e. g. subnitrate of bismuth, is suspended 
in such a liquid, the result is called a suspension. 

Mucilago Acacias and M. Tragacanthae are frequently used to form emul- 
sions. Mucilago Acaciae should be recently prepared. It is incompatible with 
perchloride of iron, borax, and subacetate of lead. 

Emulsions are coagulated by acids, an undue proportion of metallic salts, 
and spirituous liquids. 

PHARMACEUTICAL PROCESSES. 

Many of these, as filtration, precipitation, etc., need no 
explanation-, but the following require a few words. 

Levigation consists in reducing a drug to powder by tritur- 
ating it with a little water and drying the resulting paste. 

Elutriation consists in diffusing an insoluble powder in 
water, letting the heavier part settle, then decanting the superna- 



14 PHARMACY. 

tant fluid. The heavier powder in this is allowed to settle, the 
fluid decanted, and so on until a fluid containing powder of the 
required fineness is obtained. 

Lixiviation consists in the extraction with water of the sol- 
uble matter of the ashes of anything which has been ignited, the 
solution being called a "lye." 

Dialysis. — In this process a mixture of colloid and crystal- 
loid solutions is placed in a cylinder, over the bottom of which a 
piece of parchment is tied. The cylinder is suspended in a vessel 
containing distilled water. The crystalline substances (the diffu- 
sate) pass out through the parchment into the water, the colloids 
(the dialysate) remain behind in the cylinder. In this way the 
excess of acidulous matter (the diffusate) is separated from Fer- 
rum Dialysatum (the dialysate), (not officinal). 

Maceration consists in leaving coarsely powdered solid 
organic substances, in contact for some time, at the temperature 
of the atmosphere, with a liquid. The resulting solution may be 
concentrated by heat. 

Percolation is a process for obtaining the soluble constitu- 
ents of a drug by the descent of a solvent through it. The drug 
to be percolated is packed in a tall vertical cylinder, tied over at 
its lower end with muslin. The percolating fluid is poured in at 
the top of the cylinder, and as it drops out through the muslin it 
is collected. In this way many tinctures and fluid extracts of 
vegetable drugs are prepared. 

Scaling. — Scale preparations are made by drying concen- 
trated solutions of drugs on glass plates. The solid left behind 
forms a thin film on the plate, and this film is broken up. 

Standardizing. — The Pharmacopoeia directs that certain 
preparations shall be standardized — that is to say, should yield a 
certain percentage of the alkaloid, the minimum quantity of which 
is stated. The standard preparations are: 

Opii Pulvis containing not less than 12 nor more than 16 per cent. Mor- 
phine. 

Opium containing not less than 9 per cent. Morphine. 
Cinchona Bark containing at least 3 per cent, total alkaloids. 
Cinchona Flava (or Rubra) containing at least 2 per cent. Quinine. 



WEIGHTS, MEASURES AND SYMBOLS. 1 5 

WEIGHTS. MEASURES. SYMBOLS. 
Weights (Apothecaries' or Troy Weight). 

I grain . . Symbol, gr. 

480 " = one ounce " § 

12 ounces = one pound " ft) 

The Scruple (20 grains, symbol 9) is rarely used, and the Drachm (60 
grains, symbol £ ) is commonly used- 
Measures of Capacity. 

I minim . Symbol, TTL 

60 minims = one FLUID DRACHM " 5 

8 fluid drachms = one fluid ounce . " § 

16 fluid ounces == one pint ..... " O 

8 pints == one gallon. ... " C 

Usually g and ^ are written fg and f§ when they stand for fluid 

drachms and ounces. 

Relations of Measures to Weights. 

I minim is the measure of 0.95 grains of water. 

I fluid drachm " " 56.96 " " 

I fluid ounce " " 455-69 " " 

I pint " " 7291.04 " " 

A 1 per cent, solution is approximately a grain in 100 minims. 
A fluid grain is the volume of one grain of water at 6o° F., that is to say 
it is a little over a minim (1.05 Vf[,). 

In the Pharmacopoeial description of the various proportions which several 
parts of a compound bear to one another, the word parts means parts by weight ; 
the term fluid parts signifies the volume of an equal number of parts of water. 
Metrical System. — This, which is as follows, is official on the Continent. 

WEIGHTS. 

I milligramme = 0.00 1 gramme. 

I centigramme = 0.0 1 " 

I decigramme = 0.1 " 

1 gramme = weight of 1 cubic centimetre of distilled water at 4 C. • 

I decagramme = 1 0.0 grammes. [Abbreviation, grm. 

I hectogramme = 100.0 " 

I kilogramme = 1000.0 " Abbreviation, kilo. 

MEASURES. 

I millilitre = I cubic centimetre (abbrev., c.c.) = the measure of I grm. of 
I centilitre^ 10 c.c. = the measure of 10 grms. of water. water. 

I decilitre = 100 c.c. = " " 100 " " 

I litre — 1000 c.c. — " " 1000 " (1 kilo, of water.) 



1 6 PHARMACY. 

Conversion of United States to Metrical System. 

WEIGHTS. 

I grain = 0.0648 grm. 
I ounce = 31.103 grms. 
1 pound == 373- 2 5° " 

MEASURES. 

I minim = 0.0616 c.c. 

I fluid drachm = 3.70 " 
I fluid ounce = 29.57 " 
I pint = 473.11 " 

I gallon =3785.51 

Conversion of Metrical to United States. 

WEIGHTS. 
I milligramme = 0.015432 grain. 

I gramme =a 15.432 grains. 

I kilogramme = 15342.34 " 

MEASURES. 

I cubic centimetre = 16.23 minims. 

I litre (1000 c.c.) = 33.81 fluid ounces. 
In prescribing on the Continent all liquids are weighed. 
The weight used for liquids and solids is grammes, and this word is not 
expressed. Thus — 

Mag. Sulph. 20.0 = 20 grammes of Sulphate of Magnesia. 

Hydrarg. Chi or. mit. 0.5 = half a gramme of mild Chloride of Mercury. 
Tinctura Rhei 1.5 = a gramme and a half of Tinctura Rhei. 

Domestic Measures. 

A tea-spoonful is about a fluid drachm. 

A dessert-spoonful is about two fluid drachms. 

A table-spoonful is about half a fluid ounce. 

A wine-glassful is about one and a half to two fluid ounces. 

A tea-cupful is about five fluid ounces. 

A breakfast-cupful is about eight fluid ounces. 

A tumblerful is about eleven fluid ounces. 

A drop is often taken as being about a minim, but drops vary so much in 
size that they should never be used for children, nor as a measure of powerful 
drugs. For example, the number of drops in a fluid drachm, of the United 
States syrup of acacia is 44, of water 60, of alcohol 146, of chloroform 250. 



ABSTRACTA, ACETA, AQVM. 



17 



PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS AND THEIR DOSES. 

Most drugs are not, in their natural state, fit for administration. They are 
either too bulky, too nauseous, or contain noxious principles. Preparations 
suitable for administration are therefore prepared from them according to " offi- 
cinal " pharmacopceial directions. The doses of the various drugs and their 
preparations which may safely be given to an adult, are taken from the Tables 
for Doctors and Druggists, compiled by Eli H. Long, M.D., but these doses are 
often not rigorously adhered to in prescribing. They vary with the purpose for 
which the drug is required and the age of the patient (see Prescribing). The 
following is an account of the preparation of the pharmacopceial preparations, 
and the attempt has been made to arrange the doses so as to make them easy of 
remembrance. 

Abstracta. — Solid, dry powdered extracts of double the 
strength of the crude drug. They are prepared by spontaneous 
evaporation in an alcoholic tincture at a low temperature (not 
exceeding 122 F) mixing with it enough Sugar of Milk to make 
the product weigh one-half of the original weight of the drug, 
and then reducing it to a fine powder. There are eleven officinal 
in U. S. P. 



Abstractum Aconiti. 

— Belladonnae. 

— Conii. 

— Digitalis. 



Abstractum Podophylii. 

— Senegae. 

— Valerianae. 



Abstractum Hyoscyami. 

— Ignatise, 

— Jalapae. 

— Nucis Vomicae. 
The dose is one-half that of the crude drug. 

Aceta. — Solutions of the active principles of the drug ex- 
tracted from it by maceration or digestion with acetic acid (not 
vinegar). The U. S. P. contains four. 



Dose. 

Acetum Opii 3 — 2otTL 

— Sanguinariae 5 TTL — 3 Z 



] Dose. 

Acetum Scillae 10 — 45TIX 

— Lobeliae 10 — 60TIX 



Aquae.— Aqueous solutions impregnated with some volatile 
substance. 

Mostly made by percolating through cotton impregnated with 
the substances. Those in the U. S P. made thus are — 



Dose. 
Aqua Fceniculi ~\ x , ~ 

— Anisi / 

— Cinnamomi ^ — I ^ 



Dose. 



Aqua Camphorae . . 

— Menthae Piperitae . 

— Menthae Viridis. . 



I., 



1 1 



1 8 PHARMACY, 



Three are made by distillation : 



Dose. 
Aqua Aurantii florum . indeterminate 
— Destillata " 



Dcse. 
Aqua Rosae indeterminate 



Two are simple solutions in cold water: 



Dose. 



Dose. 



Aqua Creosoti I — 4 ^ Aqua Amygdalae Amarae . . . 2 — 4 ^ 

Three are made by passing gases through water : 



Dose. 



Dose. 



Aqua Chlori 10 — 20UL 



Aqua Ammoniae Fortior . 3 — 6Vf[ 
— Ammoniae 10 — 2otY^ 

Cerata are ointments, but are of a much firmer consistence. 
They all contain wax (cera) and do not melt at temperatures be- 
low 104 F. Eight are officinal in U. S. P. 



Ceratum 

— Camphorae 

— Cantharidis 



Ceratum Cetacei 

— Extracti Cantharidis 

— Plumbi Subacetatis 



Ceratum Resinae 
— Sabinae 



Charta (papers). — Paper impregnated with an active com- 
pound and used as a plaster. The U. S. P. contains three : 

Charta Cantharidis, made from cantharides, ) • , 

' > sized paper. 

— Sinapis, made from mustard, J 

— Potassii Nitratis, unsized paper. 

Collodia (collodions). — Solutions of pyroxylin in ether and 
alcohol. When applied externally a protective film is formed 
owing to the rapid volatilization of the solvent. The U. S. P. 
contains four: 

Collodium. Collodium Cum Cantharide. 

— Flexile. — Stypticum. 

Confectiones. Syn. Electuaries, boluses, conserves. — Pow- 
ders made into a paste with syrup, of such a consistency that the 
powders do not separate but the mass can be swallowed. The 
U. S. P. contains two: 

Confectio Rosae, used as a basis for pills. 
— Sennae dose, 1 — 25. 

Decocta. — Solutions of the non-volatile active principles of 
vegetable drugs, made by boiling the ingredients in distilled 



EMPLASTRA, EXTRACT A. 19 



}- 



water 30 minutes, in a covered vessel, and straining with addi- 
tion of cold cold water. The U. S. P. contains — 

Dose. 
Decoctum Cetrarise 

— Sarsaparillae . . 

Co. . . 

Elixirs are alcoholic liquids containing aromatic oils. There 
is but one in the U. S. P. — Elixir Aurantii — which is used as a 
vehicle. 

Emplastra. — Plasters consist of tenacious, pliable, solid 

substances. They are only used for applications for the skin, to 

which they adhere at the temperature of the body. 

r Oxide of lead, olive oil, and water. Oleate of Lead 
Emplastrum Plumbi j AND Glycerine are formed. 

— Asafoetidae 

— Ferri 

— Galbani 

— Hydrargyri [- Lead plaster is the basis. 

— Opii 

— Resinse 

— Saponis 

— Belladonna v 

A . I Resin plaster, which is made from lead plaster is the 

— Armcae L r r 

~ . . I basis 

— Capsici J 

— Picis Burgundicae ") w . , . 

fe v Wax the basis. 

Canadensis J 

— Ammoniaci cum ) ^ r -, -, ■, -, -, ., r • 

V Ulive oil and lead plaster the basis. 

Hydrargyro J 

— Ammoniaci Diluted acetic acid the basis. 

— Ichthyocollae Court plaster. 

— Picis Cum Cantharide Warming plaster. 

Extracta. — Concentrated preparations made by evaporating 
solutions of vegetable principles. 

The drug is first powdered, then percolated with the appropriate menstruum 
to exhaustion. The first third of the percolate is reserved, the remainder is 
evaporated at a temperature not exceeding 12 2° F., until its weight is ten per 
cent, of that of the drug used, then mixed with the reserve portion, and both 
are evaporated at or below the above-named temperature to a pilular consis- 
tence. The menstrua used are : 

(a) Alcohol ; Ext. Aconiti, Cannabis Indicse, Juglandis, Mezerei and 
Physostigmatis. 



20 



PHARMACY. 



(&) Diluted Alcohol; Ext. Arnicae Radicis, Belladonnae Alcoholicum, 
Cinchonae, Colocynthidis, Conii Alcoholicum, Digitalis, Euonymi, Hyos- 
cyami Alcoholicum, Iridis, Leptandrae, Nucis Vomicae, Podophylli, Rhei 
and Stramonii. 

(c) Water; Ext. Aloes Aquosum, Gentianae, Glycyrrhizae, Haema- 
toxyli, Krameriae, Malti, Opii and Quassiae. 

(d) Water and Aqua Ammoniae; Ext. Glycyrrhizae Purum. 

(e) Diluted Acetic Acid; Ext. Colchici Radicis. 
(_/) Inspissated Juice ; Ext. Taraxaci. 

(g) Evaporated Fluid Extract; Ext. Ergotae. 

(h) By mixing extracts with aromatics; Ext. Colocynthidis Com- 
positum. 

They are in the U. S. P. 



SOLID EXTRACTS. 
Dose. 



Extractum Aconiti . . . T ^ — ^ gr. 

— Physostigmatis . . . T ^ — y^ gr. 

— Belladonnae Alcoholicum^ — ^ gr. 

— Nucis Vomicae . . . -\ , 

-Opii j^-igr 



Cannabis Indicae 
Stramonii . . , 



: 3, 



4 gr. 

X— l A g r - 

— Digitalis % — I gr. 

— Conii Alcoholicum . . ]/ z — I gr. 

— Colocynthidis . . . 

— Colchici Radicis . . 

— Hyoscyami Alcoholi- 

cum 

— Quassiae 

— Aloes Aquosum . . . 

— Leptandrae 

— Iridis 



Yt.— 2 gr. 



}* 



3gr. 



3gr. 



Dose. 
I— 5 gr. 



}*- 



iogr. 



Extractum Euonymi . 

— Gentianae .... 

— Podophylli .... 

— Arnicae Radicis . . . -j 

— Krameriae ..... J 
Co 

— Haematoxyli . . 

— Ergotae .... 

— Rhei 

— Cinchonae . . . 

— Taraxaci .... 

— Juglandis I — 2 g 

— Malti I — 45 

— Glycyrrhizae .... Freely. 
Purum Freely. 

— Mezerei Externally. 



5— io gr. 



5—15 gr. 



5-30 gr. 



Extracta Fluida. — Fluid extracts are permanent concen- 
trated solutions of vegetable drugs, of uniformly definite strength 
if the crude drugs are so, a cubic centimer (11116.23) in each 
case representing the medicinal powers of one gramme (gr. 15.43) 
of the drug, or approximately a minim of the fluid extract 
representing the active constituents of a grain of the drug. They 
are made by percolation and partial evaporation, the menstrum 
employed being usually alcohol, diluted alcohol, or alcohol and 
water in various proportions. They are in the U. S. P. — 



EXTRACTA. 



21 



FLUID EXTRACTS. 



Dose. 
Extractum Aconiti Fluidum ]/ 2 — 2 Tit 

— Digitalis y 2 — 3 tn 

— Belladonnae 

— Stramonii 

— Nucis Vomicae " I — 4 Vfi 

— Ipecacuanha ■< " *' •* ^ 

I emetic, IS — loVCl 



ji-sm 



— Sanguinariae 



j expect., I 



J 



I emetic, % 

— Veratri Viridis Fluid 

— Scillae 

— Colchici Seminis " 

— Conii " 

— Cannabis Indicae " 

— Capsici " 

— Colchici Radicis " 

— Lobeliae " 

— Gelsemii " 

— Zingiberis " 

— Mezerei " 

— Sabinae " 

— Hyoscyami " 

— Arnicae Radicis " 

— Podophylli « 

— Gentianae " 

— Krameriae u 

— Calumbae " 

— Lupulini " 

— Aromaticum " 

— Valerianae " 

— Senegae " 

— Iridis " 

— Serpentariae " 
— ■ Xanthoxyli " 

— Buchu 

— Cypripedii " 

— Pilocarpi " 

— Hydrastis " 

— Lactucarii " 

— Cinchonae " 

— Cornus " 



30m 
5m 

1 z 

2-81H 

2-iont 
5-iom 

5-15 m 
5-20 m 

5-30IU 
- 10—30 in 



Dose. 



j 10— 30 m 
} 15-30 m 

j 5-60 m 

1 10-60 m 



Extractum Calami Fluid. 

— Eupatorii " 

— Gossypii Radicis " 

— Grindeliae " 

— Guaranae " 

— Quassiae " 

— Rhei « 

— Rhois Glabrae " 

— Rosae " 

— Rumicis " 

— Stillingiae " 

— Uvae Ursi " 

— Viburni " 

— Leptandrae " 

— Geranii * " 

— Spigeliae " 

— Rubi " 

— Aurantii Amari " 

— Ergotae " 

— Hamamelidis " 

— Pareirae " 

— Pruni Virginianae " 

— Sarsaparillae Co. " 

— Sarsaparillae " 

— Castaneae " 

— Chimaphilae " 

— Chiratae " 

— Eucalypti " 

— Frangulae u 

— Matico " 
- — Cimicifugae " 

— Cubebae " 
— ■■ Scutellariae " 

— Dulcamarae " 

— Sennae " 

— Brayerae " 

— Taraxaci " 

— Erythroxyli " 

— Tritici " 

— Glycyrrhizae " 



■%— ■ 3 



- 2 3 



23 



<Z~ 13 

- 2 3 
i— 3 3 

— 43 

1-83 
Freely. 



2 2 PHARMACY. 

Glycerita. — Solutions of drugs in glycerine. They are all 
liquid preparations used for external application. 

Glyceritum Amyli. Glyceritum Vitelli. 

Infusa. — Solutions made by pouring water or boiling water 
upon the drug to be extracted, then covering up the vessel, agi- 
tating from time to time, and straining or percolating. The fil- 
trate or percolate is the infusion. 

The infusions of the U. S. P. are : 



• \ 1-2 5 Infusum Bray era . . . > l _^ 
. J — Digitalis I 



Infusum Cinchonae . . ) . _ „ z Infusum Brayerae 

— Pruni Virgin! anae 

— Sennae Compositum . I — 2 J ^ 



Two are made with Cold Water. Inf. Cinchonae, Pruni Virginianae. 

One is compound, viz. Inf. Sennae Co. 

One contains acid : Inf. Cinchonae. 

Infusions should be freshly made, as they readily decompose. 

Linimenta. — Applications of an oily or spirituous consist- 
ence, all of which are intended to be rubbed into the skin except 
Lin. Calcis. 

Linimentum Ammoniae .... Ammonia and cotton seed oil. 

— Calcis Solution of lime and cotton seed oil. 

— Camphorae Camphor and cotton seed oil. [oil. 

— Plumbi Subacetatis Solution of subacetate of lead and cotton seed 

— Belladonnas Fluid extract and camphor. 

— Cantharidis Cantharides and oil of turpentine. 

— Chloroformi Chloroform and soap liniment. 

— Saponis Soap, camphor, oil of rosemary, and alcohol. 

Sinapis Compositum .... J Oil of mustard, extract of mezereum, cam- 

I phor, castor oil and alcohol. 

— Terebinthinae Resin cerate and oil of turpentine. 

Liquores. — Solutions in distilled water of definite chemical 
bodies, except Liq. Gutta-Perchae, in which the substance in solu- 
tion is not a definite chemical body, and the solvent is chloro- 
form. 

The following are the doses of Liquors : 



MASS^E, MELLA, MISTURvE, MUCILAGINES. 



«3 



Dose. 



ri V I — 

"l 



lotn 



Liquor Iodi Compositus 

— Arsenii et Hydrargyri 

Iodidi .... 

— Potassii Arsenitis 

— Ferri Acetatis . . 

Chloridi j- 2— ioTTL 

Nitratis 

Subsulphatis ... J 

Sodii Arseniatis . . . 3 — iotTL 

Acidi Arseniosi . . . 5 — ioTTL 

Used only externally : 

Liquor Ferri Tersulphatis. 

— Gutta-Perchae. 

— Hydrargyri Nitratis. 

— Plumbi Subacetatis. 



Dose. 



Liq. Ferri et Quin. Citratis ^ 



ism 



Citratis . . . 

— Sodae 5— 20^ 

— Potassae 5 — 30TII 

— Sodae Lhloratae .... y z — I 3 

— Pepsini 1 — 4 3 

— Magnesii Citratis .... 2 — 8 § 

— Ammonii Acetatis . . . % — I § 

— Calcis 

— Potassii Citratis . 



83 



Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus. 

— Sodii Silicatis. 

— Zinci Chloridi. 



Massae consist of substances mixed so as to be of a con- 
sistency suitable for making pills. These are officinal in the 
U. S. P. 

Dose. 
Massa Hydrargyri ^ — 15 gr. 

— Ferri Carbonatis I — 5 gr. 

— Copaibae % — I 3 

Mella. — Mixtures of some substance with clarified honey. 
The U. S. P. contains only two, one of these being simply honey 
purified. 

Mel Despumatum. Mel Rosae. 

Misturae. — Liquid preparations consisting of one or more 
drugs dissolved in water or suspended in a solution of gum or 
some other thick fluid. The mixture is usually flavored, and is 
for internal administration. Examples in U. S. P. 



Dose. 
Mistura Rhei et Sodae . . . % — 2 £ 

— Ferri Composita . . . y^ — 2 g 

— Magnesiae et Asafcetidae. ^ — 43 

— Chloroformi ^ 

— Ferri et Ammonii Acetatis I I — . 

— Glycyrrhizae Co . . . .J 



■4 3 



Mistura Potassii Citratis 

— Cretae 

— Ammoniaci .... 

— Amygdalae .... 

— Asafoetidae .... 



Dose. 

1-8 5 
2-43 



Mucilagines. — Mucilages are aqueous, viscid solutions of 



24 



PHARMACY. 



Mucilago Tragacanthae. 
— Ulmi. 



Oleum Sinapis Volatile 

— Amygdalae Amarae 

— Aurantii Corticis . 

— Tiglii 

— Florus 

— Anisi 

— Bergamii .... 

— Myristicae .... 

— Rutae 

— Cajuputi 

— Cari 

— Caryophylli .... 

— Cinnamomi . ■ , . . 

— Lavandulae .... 

— Florum 

— Limonis 

— Menthae Piperitae . 

— Menthae Viridis . . 

— Pimentae 

— Rosmarini .... 

— Sassafras 

— Thymi 

— Valerianae .... 

— Sabinae 

— Phosphoratum . . 

— Foeniculi 

— Gaultheriae .... 



Dose. 



gum or starch used for suspending insoluble substances. The 
U. S. P. contains five : 

Mucilago Acaciae. 

— Cydonii. 

— Sassafras Medullas. 
There is no fixed dose; it is usually £j. 

Oleata. — Oleates are solutions in oleic acid, intended for 
external application. The U. S. P. contains two : 

Oleatum Hydrargyri (io per cent, solution of yellow oxide of mercury in 
oleic acid). 

Oleatum Veratrinae (2 per cent, solution of veratrine in oleic acid). 

Olea. — There are many oils in the Pharmacopoeia. They 
are all obtained by distillation or by expression except Oleum 
Phosphoratum, which is a solution of phosphorus in almond oil. 
The U. S. P. olea are— 

Dose. 
Oleum Hedeomae . . . ^ 

— Ros* } — 5UI 

— Coriandri 2 — 5TTI 

— Chenopodii . . . . ^ 

— Santali I 2 — ioTTL 

— Juniperi J 

— Copaibae . . 

— Erigerontis 

— Succini ........ 5 — ioTf^ 

— Cubebae 5 — 2oTTL 

— Eucalypti . . 

— Terebinthinae . 

— Morrhuae 1 ■ 

— Amygdalae expressum J 

— Ricini j£ — 2 ^ 

— Lhii ^— 23 

— Sesami indeterm. 

— Gossypiim Verminis . ^ 

-ouvf }^y- 

— Myriciae ...... ^ 

— Picis Liquidae ... V externally. 

— Theobromae .... J 

— Adipis . . 

— ^Ethereum 



\Y± 



2lH 



31H, 



1- 5m 



} 5-15111 



} 5-30111 



> in pharmacy. 



PILULE, PULVERES, SPIRITUS. 



25 



Pilulae. — Solid spherical bodies containing medicinal agents, 
and intended to be swallowed whole. A mass of the consistence 
of firm clay is made by beating medicaments together in a mor- 
tar. This mass is, with a machine, divided up and rolled into 
pills. In order that they may not possess a disagreeable taste, they 
are varnished, gilded, or sugar-coated. Unless the constituents are 
very heavy, each pill should not exceed 5 grains in weight. 
Soap, bread crumbs, and confection of roses are common excipi- 
ents for pills. Glycerine is often added, for it attracts moisture 
and prevents the pill from getting hard. Pills are often kept in 
some powder, as lycopodium, to prevent their sticking together. 
The pills in the U. S. P. are — 



Dose. 
Pilulae Phosphori . . t ±q gr. in each 

— Opii 1 gr. in each 

— - Asafcetidae 3 gr. in each 

— Ferri Iodidi. ...... 1 — 2 

— Catharticae Compositae . 

— Antimonii Compositae . 

— Aloes et Mastiches . . . 

— Rhei Compositae .... 



Dose. 



Pilulae Aloes .... 

— Aloes et Ferri . . 

— Galbani Compositae 

— Rhei 

— Aloes et Asafcetidae 

— Ferri Compositae . 

— Aloes et Myrrhae . 



} 



}.-s 

. 1— 6 
. 2 — 10 



Pulveres.— Powders are mixtures of finely powdered drugs. 
The best diluent for powders is sugar of milk, because of its 
hardness and insolubility. 



Dose. 
Pulvis Antimonialis . ; . }4 — 2 g r - 

— Ipecacuanhae et Opii. . 3 — i5gr. 

— Cretae Co. . 5 — 60 gr. 

— Morphinae Co 5 — I5gr. 

Pulvis Effervescens Compositus. 



Dose. 
Pulvis Aromaticus .... 10 — 30 gr. 

— Jalapae Co %— I 3 

— Glycyrrhizae Co . . . . yi. — 2 5j 

— Rhei Co yi — I 3 

Seidlitz Powder. (See Sodium Com- 



pounds.) Pulvis Ipecacuanhae et Opii is practically a trituration. 



Spiritus (spirits) are alcoholic solutions of volatile substances, 
which may be solids, liquids or gases. They are prepared by 
simple solution. 



26 



PHARMACY. 



Dose. 
Spiritus ^Etheris Compositus 5 — 6oTTL 

— Cinnamomi 10 — 30^ 

— ^Etheris ^ — 13 

— Camphorae 

— Chloroformi .... 

— Juniperi. ..... \ %-* 1% 

— Lavandulae I 

— Myristicae J 

By solution with maceration : 

Vehicle. 

Spiritus Limonis . . , 

— Menthae Piperitae . . 

— Menthae Viridis . . . 



Dose. 
Spiritus Ammoniae Aroma- 

ticus ^ — 2g 

— Juniperi Compositus . . 1 — 3 3 

— Anisi "> - 

V 1 — 2 Z 

— Gaultheriae J 

— Aurantii vehicle. 

— Myriciae externally. 

— Odoratus perfume. 

Dose. 



} 5-15 m 

•5— 15 gr- 



By gaseous solution : 

Spiritus Ammoniae IO — 60 tTL 

By chemical reaction : 

Spiritus ^Etheris Nitrosi J^ — 2 3 

By distillation : 

Spiritus Frumenti indefinite. 

— Vini Gallici indefinite. 

Suppositoria. — Suppositories are conical solid bodies con- 
taining active drugs for introduction into the rectum or vagina. 
The basis is oil of theobroma (which is solid). 

Syrupi. — Syrups are fluid preparations of drugs flavored 
with sugar. There are ^ officinal in U. S. P. 

Examples : Syr. Aurantii, Syr. Rhei. The dose of all is about ig or 
rather more, excepting Syr. Ferri Bromidi, Ferri Iodidi, Scillae Compositus, 
when it is 5 to 30 fit- 

Tincturse. — Tinctures are solutions of the active principles 
of drugs in alcohol. They are prepared by — 

(#) Maceration; e.g. Tinct. Opii Camphoratae. 

(b) Percolation; e.g. Tinct. Lavandulae Co. 

(c) Maceration and Percolation ; e. g. Tinct. Opii. 

(d) Simple mixing of ingredients; e.g. Tinct. Ipecacuanhas et Opii. 
Tinctures containing only one active substance are simple. The rest are 

compound; e.g. Tinct. Catechu Composita. 

Some are compound although it is not expressed in their name ; e. g. 
Tinct. Aloes. 



TRITURATIONES. 



27 



Tinctura Aconiti . 

— Iodi 

— Cantharidis 

— Veratri Viridis . 

— Ipecacuanhae et 

— Arnicae Radicis 
• — Nucis Vomicae . 

— Opii 

— Opii Deodorata . 



Opii 



Dose. 

i-5 

i-i5 
2 — 10 

3-i5 
5—10 
5—20 



child 3- 



} 



— Opii Camphorata < 

F I adult I- 

— Belladonnas . . 

— Scillae .... 

— Stramonii . . 

— Cannabis Indicae 

— Digitalis . . . 

— Ferri Acetatis . 

— Lobelias . . . 

— Ferri Chloridi . 

— Capsici .... 

— Physostigmatis . 

— Ignatiae . . . 

— Colchici . . . 

— Conii .... 

— Gelsemii . . . 

— Rhei Dulcis . . 

— Moschi .... 

— Aloes .... 

— Myrrhae . . . 

— Arnicae Florum 

— Guaiaci .... 

— Guaiaci Ammoniata 

— Lavandulae Com- 

posita .... 

— Asafoetidae . . . 

— Matico ..... 

— Benzoini .... 

— Benzoinia Compos. 



-20 
-4 



!> X- 



m 
m 
m 

m 
m 
m 
m 



3—20 ra 



m 
3 



\ 5-30 m 

1 
1 
j 

} 5-60 m 



10— 3° va 



x- 



15-45 m 



Dose, 



Tinctura Chiratae . 

— Cimicifugae . . 

— Cinchonae . . . 

— Valerianae . . . 

— Valerianae Ammon 

— Quassiae . . . 

— Hydrastis . . . 

— Serpentariae . . 

— Krameriae . . . 

— Catechu Composita 

— Sanguinariae . . 

— Zingiberis . . , 

— Kino 

— Tolutana . . . 

— Croci .... 

— Humuli . . , 

— Cinnamomi . . 

— Aurantii Dulcis 

— Gallae .... 

— Aurantii Amari 

— Cardamomi . . 

— Cubebae . . . 

— Cinchonae Compo 

ita 

— Rhei 

— Calendulae . . 

— Calumbae . . . 

— Hyoscyami . . 

— Sumbul .... 

— Gentianae Composi 

— Rhei Aromatica 

— Aloes et Myrrhae 

— Bryoniae . . . 

— Vanillae .... 

— Saponis Viridis 

— Cardamomi Composita 

— Pyrethri 



\ K-2 3 



51TI-4 3 



1 — 2 



3 



Yz—i 3 



\ 1—4 Z 



*-3 7, 

1—5 3 

Flavoring. 
Externally. 

2—4 X 

Externally. 



Triturationes are intimate mixtures of substances with sugar 
of milk (Saccharum Lactis). There is but one officinal in U. S. P. 



28 PHARMACY. 

Dose. 
Trituratio Elaterini ]/ z to I gr. 

Trochisci. — Lozenges or Troches are solid preparations for 
taking by the mouth, and consisting of the drug mixed with gum 
and sugar. Sixteen are officinal in U. S. P. 

Examples : Troch. Catechu, Troch. Sodii Santoninatis. The dose of each 
is from i to 6 in the course of the day. 

Unguenta. — Are soft and solid preparations consisting of a 
fatty substance mixed with an active drug. They are spread over 
the skin, or may be rubbed into it. They are only intended for 
external use. The basis is either lard, olive oil, wax, petrolatum, 
spermaceti, or paraffin. Benzoinated lard is often used to pre- 
vent decomposition. Twenty-six are officinal in U. S. P. 

Examples : Ung. Hydrargyri, Ung. Iodi. 

Vina. — Wines are weak tinctures, the drug being extracted 
with stronger white wines, containing 20 to 25 per cent, by 
weight of absolute alcohol. There are fourteen wines officinal 
in the U. S. P. 

With V. Antimonii and V. Ipecacuanhae the dose depends upon the pur- 
pose for which the drug is used. 



Dose. 
Vinum Ergotae . . . . -\ 

— Ferri Amarum ... I I — 43 
— Rhei J 

— Album menstruum 

— Album Fortius .... " 

— Rubrum " 

— Aromaticum lotion. 



Dose. 
Vinum Colchici Radicis . 5 — 15TIX 

— Antimonii (expectorant) 5 — 6o / HX 

— Oph 3— 2ottl 

— Ipecacuanhae 1 — 6oTT[ 

— Colchici Seminis . . . . 10 — 3oTTL 

— Aloes ^ — 1 g 

— Ferri Citratis 1 — 23 

The following non-phar?nacopceial preparations are used : 

Bougies. — Solid cylinders impregnated with various drugs, and used for 
introduction into the urethra or nose. They are made either of gelatine (to be 
dipped in warm water before use) or cacao butter (to be dipped in oil before 
use). 

Cachets, made of wafer paper, consist of two watch-glass-shaped halves. 
The drug is enclosed between them, and they adhere when moistened. The 
cachet is swallowed, and thus nauseous drugs are not tasted. 

Capsules of gelatine are used in the same way as cachets. Pills, cachets, 



VINA. 29 

and capsules should be immediately followed by a glass of water to wash them 
down. 

Cataplasma (poultices). — Soft, pasty, external applications made with 
boiling water, having linseed (flaxseed) meal as a basis, applied warm. Lin- 
seed meal is the best basis for poultices on account of its mucilage, which 
retains moisture and emulsifies oily substances; but popularly it is often re- 
placed by bread, bran, oatmeal or starch. 

To make a poultice properly, the bowl in which it is mixed, the water, the 
spatula for mixing and spreading, the flannel or cheese-cloth on which it is laid, 
must all be as hot as is possible. The meal should be added gradually to the 
boiling water, which is continually stirred. The addition of oil or glycerine 
prevents the poultice caking, as it dries. It should not be spread so thick as to 
make it inconveniently heavy. 

Cigarettes. — The drug replaces the tobacco of an ordinary cigarette. 

Collunaria. — Fluids used as nasal douches. 

Collyria. — Fluids used as eye washes. 

Cremora. — Creams are preparations having glycerine, vaseline, or some 
similar substance as a basis, and used for external application. 

Emulsiones. — Mixtures in which the drug exists as an emulsion. 

Enemata (enemas or clysters). — Liquid preparations intended for injection 
into the rectum. When their object is to empty the bowel they are large in 
bulk; when it is wished that they should be retained they are small in bulk, 
and after injection a towel may be pressed against the anus. 

Essentias (essences) — Solution of volatile oils in rectified spirits, of a 
strength of I in 5. 

Fomenta.- — Fomentations consist of flannels wrung out in hot water, to 
which drugs may or may not have been added. 

Gargarisma is a fluid preparation used for gargling. 

Granules are small pills. 

Guttse. — Fluid preparations to be dropped into the eye. 

Haustus (a draught). — This term is used when only a single dose of a 
fluid preparation is required. 

Injectiones. — Concentrated neutral solutions for injection under the 
skin. 

Insufflationes. — Powders for blowing into the throat and larynx. 

Lamellae. — Small thin discs made with gelatine and glycerine, and used 
to drop into the eye. They each weigh ^th of a grain. 

Lanolinum is an ointment with hydrous wool fat as a basis. 

Linctus. — This has honey, treacle, or some other thick substance as a 
basis. It is to be swallowed slowly, being retained some time in the mouth. 

Lotiones. — Aqueous mixtures for external use, generally applied on lint, 
or washed upon the part. 



30 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Mollinum. — A mollinum is an ointment having for its basis mollin, a 
superfatted soap. 

Nebulae. — Solutions sprayed into the throat by means of an atomizer. 

Oxymella. — Oxymels are preparations containing honey and acid. 

Paste. — A preparation to be applied as an ointment. 

Pastillus. — Pastils are lozenges having gly co-gelatine as a basis. 

Pedes are small pills. 

Pessus. — Pessaries are solid preparations made like suppositories, and 
introduced into the vagina. 

Pigmentum. — A paint is a preparation adapted for painting on the skin, 
throat, &c. 

Succi. — These are expressed juices of plants, to which a third of their 
volume of rectified spirit is added, to preserve them. 

Tabellae. — Tablets of chocolate, each weighing two and a half grains. 

Vapores. — Inhalations are preparations arranged for the inhalation of 
volatile drugs. 

Vaselinum. — This term is applied to an ointment the basis of which is 
vas2iine. 

PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Before describing the actions and uses of drugs we must con- 
sider the manner, quantity and form in which to give them. 

MODES OF ADMINISTRATION OF DRUGS. 

(a) Into the blood-vessels by injection. This method is rarely used in 
man, excepting for transfusion of physiological saline solution. 

(6) Into the subcutaneous tissues by hypodermic injection. The skin 
of the patient, where it is lax, should be raised between the thumb and fore- 
finger of the operator's left hand; the skin of the external surface of the fore- 
arm is often selected. In his right hand he takes a perfectly clean syringe con- 
taining the quantity of fluid to be injected, and fitted with an aseptic, hollow, 
silver needle, which is thrust under the raised piece of skin, but not into the 
muscles, for about an inch, care being taken to avoid wounding a vein. The 
syringe is slowly emptied, then withdrawn, and the thumb pressed lightly upon 
the seat of injection for a few seconds. The advantage of this method is that 
the drug is surely and quickly absorbed. The fluid used must not contain solid 
particles, nor be irritating, or abscesses will result; it must be aseptic, and 
therefore, if it is not freshly prepared, it may contain a little carbolic acid — or, 
better still, boracic acid, for this is non-poisonous and non-irritating. The bulk 
injected should, if possible, be about five minims. For injections that are not 
in constant use it is advisable to keep the drugs in the form of lamellae, or soluble 
tablets, and to dissolve one in a few minims of water as required. 



DOSES. 31 

(c) Into serous cavities by injection. This method is rarely used in 
man except when the object is to antiseptically wash out a serous cavity, as the 
pleura, which has been opened, or to produce adhesive inflammation, as in the 
injection of irritants into the tunica vaginalis. 

(d) Into mucous cavities. — Drugs are most frequently given by the 
mouth, to be absorbed from the mucous membrane of the stomach or intestines, 
but the rate of absorption is much slower than from the subcutaneous tissue, 
and will depend upon whether the drug is readily soluble in the gastro-intestinal 
secretions, and whether it is given on an empty stomach, in which case it will 
be quickly absorbed ; or on a full one, when it will be slowly absorbed. When 
it is intended that the drug shall act only in the intestine, pills, made purposely 
insoluble in the gastric fluids, are administered. Some drugs, given by the 
mouth and absorbed from the stomach, probably never reach the general circu- 
lation, as they are excreted in the bile by the liver. The drug must be in a 
pleasant, palatable form, and generally so combined as not to irritate. 

Drugs are sometimes given by the rectum — in a solid form as supposi- 
tories, in a liquid form as enemata or clysters ; but they are not dissolved nor 
absorbed here so quickly as in the stomach. 

For local effects they may be given by the urethra or vagina (injections, 
bougies, pessaries), or by the respiratory passages (vapors, cigarettes, 
sprays, or nebulae for inhalations ; insufflations for blowing into the throat 
and larynx; pigmenta, gargarismata, trochisci, for a local effect on the 
mouth and pharynx; nasal douches for the nose). For sprays an atomizer is 
required. Sometimes volatile drugs, as chloroform, ammonia, nitrite of amyl, 
are inhaled for their general effect. 

(*?) By the skin.— Some drugs may be absorbed from the skin if mixed 
with some fatty substance, especially lanolin. In this way mercury may be ab- 
sorbed by being rubbed in ; but drugs are chiefly applied to the skin as oint- 
ments, plasters, etc., for their local effect. 

They are also applied to the eye and ear as drops and washes. 

DOSES. 

The study of doses is termed Posology. In determining the dose the 
following considerations have to be borne in mind : 

1. Age. — The adult dose is that for a person between twenty and sixty 
years old. 

For children under twelve add twelve to the age, and divide the age by 
the number thus obtained. Thus for a child aged eight the dose will be 
2 



= — of an adult dose. From twelve to sixteen years from | to \ the 

8 + 12 5 . . J 3 2 

adult dose is required, and from seventeen to twenty years from f to f . There 
are exceptions to this rule for individual drugs ; e.g. children take iron, cod- 



32 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

liver oil, arsenic, and chloral very well, but they can take only very small doses 
of opium. 

Above sixty years of age the dose should slightly diminish as age in- 
creases. 

2. Weight. — In pharmacological experiments the dose should always be 
expressed as a proportion of the weight of the animal. In man the weight is 
not often considered, for it depends so much upon bone and fat, which are not 
active tissues ; but, as a rule, women require rather a smaller dose of medicine 
than men. 

3. Habit. — A man who is constantly under the action of a drug becomes 
very insusceptible to it. Thus an opium eater requires enormous doses of opium 
to produce any effect. A person who habitually takes purgatives requires very 
strong ones to open the bowels. 

4. Idiosyncrasy. — The susceptibility to drugs varies very much. Some 
persons are salivated by minute doses of mercury, others bear it very well, and 
there is hardly a drug to which some people are not exceptionally indifferent or 
susceptible. 

5. Time of Administration. — Drugs all act to greatest advantage when 
given so that their effect will be produced at its natural time. Thus soporifics 
act best when given in the evening, slowly acting purgatives when given over- 
night, quickly acting ones when given before breakfast, ergot when given 
during labor. 

6. Mode of Administration. — We have seen that drugs are rapidly ab- 
sorbed from the subcutaneous tissues. Therefore a smaller dose is required for 
subcutaneous injection than when the same drug is given by the stomach, for 
there absorption is slow. It is slower still from the rectum, therefore the dose 
must be larger. Also certain drugs are excreted by the liver or destroyed in it 
when given by the stomach. Absorption takes place quickly from an empty, 
slowly from a full stomach. 

7. Mental Emotion. — Sometimes if the patient's mind is particularly 
fixed on the action of the drug a small dose is powerful. For example, often if 
the patient is convinced he will sleep, a very small dose of morphia is all that 
may be required. 

8. Temperature. — As the action of the drug on the organism is often 
partly chemical, the temperature must, in cold-blooded animals and excised 
structures, as muscle, etc., help to determine its action; but the temperature of 
man varies within so few degrees that this is not an important factor in medicine. 

g. Preparation of Drug. — A smaller dose of a soluble preparation, as a 
tincture, will be required than of a solid preparation, as a pill, which will have 
to be slowly dissolved before absorption, although in the latter case much 
depends upon the process of manufacture. 

10. Rate of Excretion. — It is obvious that, other things being equal, for 



PRESCRIBING. 33 

prompt action a smaller dose will be required of a drug that is rapidly excreted 
than of one which is slowly excreted. 

11. Cumulative Action. — Sometimes it is found that if a person has 
been taking a drug regularly, but without the production of any toxicological 
symptoms, these will suddenly develop. This is said to be due to the cumula- 
lative action of the drug. It may be caused by the following circumstances : 

(#) The drug may be absorbed more rapidly than it is excreted. This is 
the cause of the cumulative action of mercury and lead, both of which are ex- 
creted with difficulty by the kidney. 

(<£) There may be a sudden arrest in the excretion of the drug. It is 
probable that digitalis and strychnine, when the quantity of them in the tissues 
reaches a certain amount, contract the renal vessels, and hence excretion is 
arrested. 

(c) It is possible that, owing to an alteration in the intestinal contents, a 
drug which was previously very slowly dissolved becomes quickly dissolved, 
and hence rapidly absorbed. 

12. Disease. — The physiological action of drugs, and consequently the 
dose, are profoundly modified by disease. For example, a patient with peri- 
tonitis will bear enormous doses of opium. Antipyretics, which do not affect a 
normal temperature, powerfully depress a febrile temperature. 

PRESCRIBING. 
The more complex prescriptions consist of — 

(1) The Basis, or principal active ingredient (curare). 

(2) The Adjuvans, or that which assists its action (cito). 

(3) The Corrigens, or that which corrects its operation (tuto). 

(4) The Constituens, vehicle, or excipient, which imparts an agreeable 
form (jucunde). 

Thus the object of every prescription is to cure quickly, safely and pleas- 
antly. For example, in Pilula Rhei Composita the rhubarb is the basis, the 
aloes and myrrh form the adjuvans, and the peppermint is the corrigens to pre- 
vent the griping. In Mistura Cretae the cinnamon water is the vehicle. Many 
drugs do not require anything to assist their action or correct their operation. 

Incompatibility of ingredients should be particularly 
avoided in prescriptions. There are three kinds of incompati- 
bility : 

(a) Chemical Incompatibility ; e. g. glucosides should not be ordered with 
free acids, which decompose them; nor alkalies, alkaline salts, iodides, or 
bromides with alkaloids, for they precipitate them. 

4 



34 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



The following table, drawn tip by Professor Potter {Materia Medica, Phar- 
macy and Therapeutics, 3d Ed., p. 44g), shows the most important 
instances of solutions which mtitually precipitate each other. P means 
"forms a precipitate with'''' 





G 

.2 

C 72 

<" OS 
— u 
a v 

O OX) 

P 
P 
P 

Y 

p 

p 


a 

.2 

OS 

u 

s 

.2 5 
S bo 

£~ 

p 
p 
p 

Y 

p 

Y 

p 
p 


"o 
t/3 

u 

<L> . 
> C/> 

7Z C 

t/3 O 

»- '13 


-o 

rt 
<u 
h-1 

P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 
P 


c 
.2 

J3 

"S 
(/) 

u 

p 

Y 

p 
p 


t/i 

C 

# o 

O 

09 

O 

'i/5 

e 

bfl 

03 

P 

Y 
Y 


1j in 

O -S 

0.3 

5 ° 
w 

.5 « 

Y 


Solutions of alkalies 

Tannic acid 


Carbonic acid and solutions of carbonates . 
Sulphuric acid and solutions of sulphates . 
Phosphoric acid and solutions of phosphates 
Boric acid and solutions of borates .... 
Hydrochloric acid and solutions of chlorides 
Hydrobromic acid and solutions of bromides 
Hydriodic acid and solutions of iodides . . 
Solutions of sulphides 


Arsenical solutions 




Albumen 













Examples of chemical incompatibility are the prescribing of (1) tannic 
acid or substances containing it with alkaloids or metallic salts, especially 
those of iron ; (2) vinegars or syrups containing acetic acid prescribed with 
carbonates lead to the evolution of C0 2 ; (3) strychnine sulphate is decom- 
posed by potassium bromide, and strychnine is precipitated; (4) chloral and 
alkalies form chloroform; (5) sulphate of quinine and potassium acetate 
together cause a voluminous precipitate of acetate of quinine ; (6) lime water 
with mercury salts (this incompatibility is intentional in Lotio Nigra and Lotio 
Flava) precipitates oxides of mercury; it decomposes carbonates and bicar- 
bonates of alkalies; it precipitates solutions of quinine and morphine salts; 
(7) bichloride of mercury is incompatible with most substances. 

With the following drugs it is particularly difficult to avoid chemical 
incompatibility : 



Chlorine in solution. 

Liquid preparations of Iron. 

Lead salts. 

Zinc salts. 

Silver salts. 

Bichloride of Mercury (especially). 

Iodine and the Iodides. 

Permanganate of Potassium. 

Acetate of Potassium. 



Bromide of Potassium. 

Tannic Acid. 

Gallic Acid. 

Acid. Hydrocyanicum Dilutum 

Mineral Acids. 

Liquor Potassoe. 

Sulphate of Quinine. 

Tincture of Guaiacum. 



PRECIPITATES. 



35 



Substances rich in oxygen, as chlorates, iodates, permanganates, pi- 
crates, nitrates and bichromates should not be mixed with readily oxidiza- 
ble substances, such as charcoal, sulphur, iodine, carbolic acid, glycerine, 
turpentine, and organic compounds generally, for explosive compounds are 
very liable to be formed. 

Poisonous compounds may be formed by the admixture of substances 
in solution; e. g.> potassium chlorate and the syrup of iodide of iron liberate 
iodine, dilute hydrocyanic acid and calomel form cyanide of mercury, potas- 
sium chlorate and potassium iodide form at the temperature of the body a 
poisonous compound, probably potassium iodate. 

If, in a mixture, incompatibles are inevitable, they should both be diluted 
with the vehicle before they are added to each other. The careful prescriber 
will avoid combining any of the above incompatible substances. 

(b) Physical Incompatibility, — This occurs when the mixture of the sub- 
stances will not form a clear solution ; e. g. insoluble powders and oils will not 
mix with water, the addition of which, to all spirits and all resinous tinc- 
tures, and to liquid extract of male fern, causes a precipitate; an acid and 
quinine mixture is flavored with liquorice, but the acid precipitates glycyr- 
rhizin; an alcoholic solution added to chloral causes all the chloral to rise to 
the top. 

In such cases the aqueous solution may be thickened so that the precipi- 
tate is suspended in it to form an emulsion, but even then the mixture must 
be shaken before a dose is taken. Mucilage of acacia, freshly made, is the 
best emulsifying agent. The substances incompatible with it are mentioned 
on p. 13. It should be made perfectly fresh. The addition of a little almond 
oil improves its appearance. 

I pt. of most fixed oils requires acacise ^f pt., water I pt. 
I pt. of balsam of Peru " 2 " I J^ 

I pt. of oil of turpentine "I "I 

Tragacanth is often used to form an emulsion or suspension, and some- 
times yolk of egg or milk are employed. Liquor Potassae much facilitates the 
admixture of fixed oils and water. Tincture of senega aids the emulsification 
of any oil, even in small quantities, Ttt x being sufficient for an ounce of a fixed 
oil. Light carbonate of magnesium is employed to aid the diffusion of an oil 
in water through which air is to be inhaled. The suspension of oil of turpen- 
tine in mucilage of acacia is a very common non-officinal example of an emul- 
sion. 

(c) Pharmacological Incompatibility; e. g. the combination of purgatives 
with astringents. Sometimes this is intentional, as in the occasional addition 
of atropine to a hypodermic solution of morphine. After the description of 
each drug, those that are incomptible with it will be enumerated. 



36 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

THE PRESCRIPTION. 
The details of a prescription should be written in the follow- 
ing order : 

The first part is the Superscription , which is the sign R , an abbreviation 
for Recipe, " Take." 

The second part is the Inscription, consisting of the names of the drugs in 
the genitive case (the vehicle in the accusative if ad is used with it), and their 
doses in the accusative. 

The third part is the Subscription, that is to say, the directions to the 
dispenser. This in England and some other countries is written in Latin. 

The fourth part is the Signature, that is to say, the directions to the patient 
(from L. " Signetur," let it be labeled). This is written in English. 

The fifth part consists of the physician's name or initials at the bottom on 
the right, the patient's name at the bottom on the left, and under it the date ; 
thus : 

Superscription. — R . 

Inscription. — Tincturae Ferri Chloridi, giij (basis). 

Quininae Hydrochloratis, gr. xxx (adjuvans). 
Magnesii Sulphatis (corrigens). 
Glycerini, aa ^ij (corrigens). 
Infusum Quassias ad ^viij (excipient). 
Subscription. — Fiat mistura. 

Signature, — Take one table-spoonful three times a day, two hours after 
meals. A. B. C. (physician's initials). 

William Smith, Esq. (patient's name). 
1 6th June, 1891 (date). 

Abbreviations. — Although abbreviations are objectionable, yet this pre- 
scription could be written thus : 

R. Tinct. Fer. Chlor., £iij. 
Quin. Hydrochlor., ^ss. 
Mag. Sulphat. 
Glycer., aa^ij. 
Inf. Quas. ad §viij. 
F. m. 

S. Take one table-spoonful thrice a day, two hours after meals. 

William Smith, Esq. A. B. C. 

1 6th June, 1891. 
S, ss and/r are abbreviations for semi, a half, and aa for ana, of each. 
The medicine may be prescribed as a pill when it is required that the 



Ext. Col. 


( 


Hyd. Chlor. 


( 


Hyd. 


( 



THE PRESCRIPTION. 37 

patient shall carry it about with him, when only a small dose is needed, when 
it is desirable that it shall act slowly, when it is required to act on the lower 
bowel, when it is insoluble or nauseous, or when it is difficult to prescribe in 
the liquid form. Kaolin is the best basis for substances decomposed by con- 
tact with organic matter, as permanganate of potassium. 

Oils, and volatile, deliquescent or bulky substances should not be pre- 
scribed as pills, as they require much solid excipient ; nor should pills be used 
for substances required to act immediately. 

Abbreviations should be employed as little as possible. Serious mis- 
takes have happened because the abbreviations have been ambiguous. The 
following are especially to be avoided : 

Acid. Hydroc. (may be Acidum Hydrochloricum or Acidum Hydrocy- 

anicumh 
" Extractum Colchici or Extractum Colocynthidis). 
" Calomel, Corrosive sublimate or Chloral hydrate). 
" Hydrargyrum, Hydras, Hydriodas, Hydrochloras 
or Hydrocyanicus). 
Sulph. ( " " Sulphur, Sulphide, Sulphate, or Sulphite). 

Sometimes the signature is written in Latin, and it is often abbreviated. 
A list of such abbreviations is given in the appendix. 

In Great Britain and in the United States, it is always understood, unless 
otherwise stated, that the preparations are those of the Pharmacopoeia. 

Ad. — The prescriber should be careful in deciding whether or not to use 
this word before the vehicle. If it had been left out in the prescription just 
given, the bulk of the mixture would have been nearly lo)4 fluid ounces, and 
the amount of the ingredients in each dose would have been less than was in- 
tended. 

Dispensing the Prescription. — The dispenser should bear the following 
rules in mind: — (1) Read the prescription through first. (2) Next write the 
directions, so that they* have time to dry. (3) Solution by heat should not be 
used if more of the salt is ordered than will dissolve in cold water. In such 
case it must be suspended. (4) With fluids, measure them in such an order 
that the measure-glass shall be finally rinsed out with the vehicle. (5) Use 
glass scale pans. (6) Clean and put away everything directly after use. (7) 
If in the slightest doubt ask the prescriber. (8) If finally the prescription con- 
tains any insoluble matter, label " Shake the bottle." (9) If the medicine is 
very poisonous, label it as such and use a distinctive bottle. (10) If for out- 
ward application only, say so. (11) In dispensing substances chemically in- 
compatible, if there is any likelihood that the new body formed is dangerous, 
communicate with the prescriber before dispensing (<?. g. iodide of potassium 
prescribed with Spiritus ^Etheris Nitrosi forms free iodine ; alkaloids are pre- 



38 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

cipitated by alkalies). Should there be no such reason against dispensing the 
prescription [e. g. Liq. Potassse and Ferrum Dialysatum), keep the incompati- 
bles as far apart as possible by diluting each with the vehicle before mixing. 

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND THERAPEUTICAL ACTIONS. 

When the action of a drug is spoken of, the physiological 
action is usually understood. 

The primary action is that due to the unaltered drug ; e. g. the emetic 
action of sulphate of zinc. 

The secondary action is that due to compounds formed from the drug 
whilst it is in the body ; e. g. the antiseptic effect on the urine of the Uva Ursi 
taken by the mouth is probably due to the fact that arbutin, the active principle 
of Uva Ursi, is in its passage through the kidney decomposed into a glucoside 
and hydroquinone, and the latter is a powerful antiseptic. 

The direct or local action of a drug is that produced on any organ with 
which it comes in contact; e. g, the cantharidin in can tharides, in being ex- 
creted through the kidney, causes inflammation of it. 

The indirect or remote action is a secondary effect, the result of the 
direct effect; e.g. curare paralyzes the respiratory muscles, consequently the 
blood becomes venous, and therefore convulsions take place. In this case the 
venosity of the blood and the convulsions are each of them indirect actions of 
curare. 

It is clear that among drugs acting on the same parts, the total effect will 
depend very much upon which part is first affected. For example, atropine 
and curare will paralyze motor nerves, but atropine first affects the termina- 
tions of the vagus, and only late in its action the motor nerves of the voluntary 
and respiratory muscles ; hence paralysis and asphyxia are late symptoms, and 
a rapid pulse is an early symptom. Curare, however, early affects the nerve- 
endings of the voluntary and respiratory muscles, and the heart towards the 
end ; therefore asphyxia and paralysis occur early, and a rapid pulse is a late 
symptom. 

Relation between Chemical Constitution and Physiological Action. 
— It is probable that ultimately this relationship will be found to be very close, 
for certain well-marked instances of it have already been discovered ; for ex- 
ample, if strychnine, brucine and thebaine, are converted into methylstrych- 
nine, methylbrucine and methylthebaine, for the convulsive action of each of 
the first three substances there is substituted a paralyzing action. With regard 
to the chemical composition, sometimes the base and sometimes the acid ap- 
pears to determine the action — for example, all salts of arsenic have the same 
eftect ; but, on the other hand, the bromides of potassium, sodium and ammo- 
nium are similar to each other in their action. No relationship has yet been 



ANTISEPTICS. 39 

made out between the spectroscopic characters, the atomic weights, or the iso- 
morphism of drugs. 

Drugs may be classified according to the parts on which they act, and before 
describing each individual drug, a classification on this principle will be given. 

Division I. — Drugs acting upon Organisms which infect the 
Human Body, or upon Processes going on outside it. 

Antiseptics are drugs which arrest putrefaction, either by 
preventing the growth of, or completely destroying the micro- 
organisms on which decomposition depends. Some authors limit 
the use of the word to those drugs which prevent the growth of 
micro-organisms, and call those substances which destroy the 
micro-organisms, disinfectants. 

Statements are most discordant as to whether certain sub- 
stances are antiseptics, and as to the strength of their antiseptic 
power. This is because antiseptics act differently on different organ- 
isms ; and the distinction has not been drawn between preventing 
the growth of and destroying micro-organisms. Also because the 
power of antiseptics depends upon the temperature at which they 
act, the medium in which they are dissolved, the strength of 
the solution, the time given them to act, and the number of 
micro-organisms present in the substance to which they are added. 

To properly test the value of an antiseptic the above condi- 
tions must be noted. All instruments and substances — except the 
fluid containing the micro-organisms to be tested — are heated so 
that any adventitious micro-organisms are destroyed. A cultivat- 
ing medium, such as agar-agar jelly, in which the micro-organisms 
will grow, is selected, and two test-tubes, each containing some 
of it, are taken ; to one of these the supposed antiseptic is added. 
Some fluid containing the micro-organisms is then added to both 
test-tubes; both are plugged with sterilized cotton to prevent 
the entrance of germs from the air, and it is observed whether 
the micro-organisms will grow in the tube containing no antisep- 
tic, but not in that containing the antiseptic. As the power of 
an antiseptic depends on so many circumstances, no exact order 
of their potency can be given, but roughly the more powerful are 
placed first in the following list; the last are very feeble: 



40 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

1. Heat. — This is the best antiseptic, but a temperature of at least 21 2° F. 
is required. After an infectious fever, clothing, bedding, etc., may be heated 
in a dry air chamber to between 200 and 300 F. ; or what is far better, as the 
interior of the rolls of fabrics often hardly gets heated at all, steam under pres- 
sure may be driven through them. Another useful way is to boil the infected 
things in water. Surgical instruments are disinfected in this way. 

2. Bichoride of Mercury. — A solution of 1 in 1000 is constantly used 
for washing hands, and many other purposes connected with midwifery and 
surgical operations. 

3. Chlorine is, as a rule, too irritating, Chlorine gas, disengaged by the 
action of hydrochloric acid on black oxide of manganese, may be used to dis- 
infect a room, the windows, chimneys and doors of which are sealed. Disen- 
gaged from chlorinated lime, it is used to disinfect urinals. It must be remem- 
bered that it attacks and bleaches many substances. 

4. Bromine, and 5, Iodine are rarely used, as they are too irritating. 

6. Carbolic acid is largely used. 

7. Quinine, and 8, Salicylic acid are too expensive for ordinary use. 

9. Iodoform is commonly used to dust upon wounds, etc. 

10. Boric acid is used for many surgical purposes. 

11. Chloride of zinc, and 12, Permanganate of potassium are much 
used domestically. 

13. Oleum Eucalypti is used in surgery. 

14. Sulphurous acid, disengaged by the burning of sulphur, is used to 
disinfect rooms. 

15. Creasote, 16. Benzoin, 17. Sulphate of zinc, 18. Oxide of iron, 
19. Lime, 20. Thymol, 21. Alcohol, 22. Balsam of Tolu, 23. Balsam of 
Peru, are none of them much used. 

We do not know of any drugs which, when taken internally 
cr inhaled, will certainly destroy micro-organisms, either in the 
gastro-intestinal tract or respiratory passages, unless they are suf- 
ficiently concentrated to be fatal to the patient. Some authorities, 
however, consider that /5-naphthol will destroy micro-organisms in 
the stomach and intestines. 

Deodorants or deodorizers, are substances which destroy 
disagreeable smells. There are too many for enumeration. Many 
antiseptics are deodorizers. Charcoal is often called a disinfect- 
ant, but it is merely a deodorizer. It is powerless if it is wet. 

Antizymotics. — This is a word sometimes applied to drugs 
which arrest fermentation. 



ANTHELMINTICS, ANTIPARASITICS. 41 

Anthelmintics are drugs which kill such parasitic worms as 
infest the alimentary canal. Three kinds only are commonly 
met with : 

(i) Tapeworm. (Tcenia solium said T. mediocanellata). Anthelmintics: As- 
pidium (mostly used), Oleum Terebinthinae, Kamala, Kousso, Granatum, 
Pepo. 

(2) Round- worm {Ascaris lumbricoides). Anthelmintics : Santonin, Spi- 
gelia and Senna. 

(3) Thread worm (Oxyuris ven?iicula?'is). Anthelmintics: Rectal in- 
jections of salt water, infusion of quassia, solutions of iron salts, or di- 
luted oil of turpentine. It is doubtful whether these drugs (except turpen- 
tine) relieve the patient by killing the thread-worms which inhabit the rectum, 
or merely render this part unfit for them by removal of mucus. 

Anthelmintics for the tape- or round-worm should be given 
when the alimentary tract is empty. Hence it is a good plan to 
give a dose of castor oil a few hours before the anthelmintic, so 
as to ensure that the drug comes in contact with the worm. To 
expel the dead parasite a purgative should be given a few hours 
after the anthelmintic. Purgatives used for this purpose are 
called Vermifuges. Vermicide is a term sometimes applied 
to drugs which kill intestinal entozoa. 

Antiparasitics or parasiticides are substances which destroy 
parasites. The term is usually applied to those which destroy 
parasites infesting the skin. 

(1) For the various forms of tinea the following are used: — Mercurial 
preparations, especially the oleate, tincture of iodine, glycerine of carbolic 
acid, an ointment of pyrogallic acid, a boric acid lotion, salicylic acid 
lotion, acidum sulphurosum, and thymol; and if the patches are small, 
severe irritants, as croton oil, cantharides, and chrysarobin ointment. 
T. versicolor never requires severe irritants. 

(2) As a parasiticide for itch, sulphur ointment is generally used. Bal- 
sam of Peru and Styrax are also effectual. 

(3) Pediculi vesdmentorum will be killed by any mild parasiticide. Un- 
guentum Staphisagriae (unofficinal ; 1 part powdered seeds, 2 parts each, olive 
oil and lard), is often used. 

1 4) Pediculi capitis and pediculi pubis are also easily killed by mild para- 
siticides ; mercurials are commonly employed, so also is Unguentum Staphi- 
sagriae. 



42 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Antiperiodics are drugs which arrest the return of diseases 
which recur periodically. Nothing is known about their mode 
of action. 

They are cinchona bark, quinine and its salts (by far the most powerful), 
cinchonine, arsenious acid, eucalyptus, hydrastis, salicin, salicylic acid 
and berberine. They are used for all forms of intermittent fever and neuralgia. 

Division II. — Drugs acting on the Blood. 

A. Drugs acting on the Plasma. — Many substances 
must after absorption exist in solution in the plasma, and purga- 
tives, diuretics and diaphoretics must alter the composition of the 
plasma by abstracting substances from it \ but when drugs are 
given with the object of acting on the plasma it is in order to 
render it more alkaline, for we know no drugs which will make 
it acid, or even markedly reduce the natural alkalinity of the 
plasma, as the mineral acids can only exist in it in the form of 
neutral salts. 



The alkalizers of the plasma are salts of — 

(1) Potassium. 

(2) Sodium. 

(3) Ammonium. 



(4) Lithium. 

(5) Magnesium. 

(6) Calcium. 



This is approximately the order of their alkalizing power. Potassium is 
certainly the most powerful. Calcium is very feeble. 

The citrates and tartrates of these metals are decomposed in 
the plasma into alkaline carbonates. An extremely valuable 
property of alkalizers is the power they have of uniting with uric 
acid in the plasma, and forming urates, which are much more 
soluble than free uric acid. The diuretic effect of the alkali 
aids the excretion of the urates. 

Therapeutics. — The chief use of alkalies is their adminis- 
tration in gouty in which disease the uric acid is greatly in excess 
in the plasma. As the treatment has to be continued for some 
time, a preparation which does not upset digestion, such as the 
citrate of potassium, is usually preferred, or the citrate of lithium, 
for the lithium compound of uric acid is the most soluble. For 
the same purpose the numerous natural alkaline waters are fre- 
quently prescribed. 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE BLOOD. 



43 



In lead-poisoning the lead is locked up in the tissues in a very 
sparingly soluble form. Iodide of potassium is given with the ob- 
ject of forming an iodide of lead soluble in the plasma, and con- 
sequently capable of excretion by the kidneys. 

Alkalies have been largely used in rheumatic fever, on the as- 
sumption that there is a deleterious agent in the plasma, and that 
its solubility is increased by increasing the alkalinity of the plas- 
ma ; but this treatment has now been abandoned in favor of that 
by salicylates. For the same theoretical reason alkalies have been 
given in rheumatoid arthritis. 

Purgatives, diaphoretics and diuretics necessarily alter the 
composition of the plasma, and are largely used when there is 
much oedema of any part, or effusion into serous cavities, in the 
hope that as fast as these remedies drain off fluid from the plasma 
it will be replaced by that which is effused pathologically. Also 
they are given in conditions, as uraemia, in which it is thought 
that there are poisons in the blood, in order that their excretion 
may be hastened. 

The composition of the plasma can also be altered directly 
either by venesection or transfusion. 

B. Drugs acting on the Red Corpuscles. — The most 
important are those which can increase the amount of haemoglo- 
bin when that is deficient. Strictly speaking, all these have a path- 
ological and not a physiological action, for we know of no drugs 
which will increase the amount of iron in perfectly healthy blood. 
These drugs are called haematinics. 



They are — 

(i) Iron and its salts. 

(2) Arsenious acid. 

(3) Permanganate of potassium. 



(4) Salts of copper. 

(5) Hydrochloric acid (doubtful). 

(6) Potassium salts (doubtful). 

(7) Phosphorus (doubtful). 



They not only increase the quantity of haemoglobin in each 
corpuscle, but also the number of red corpuscles. Their action is 
much aided by good food, fresh air, and attention to the general 
health, and especially to the digestive organs. The mode of ac- 
tion of these haematinics is very obscure, and will be discussed 
under each drug. Iron is by far the most important. 



44 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Indirect hsematinics are drugs which benefit the patient 
by removing some obvious cause for his deficiency in haemoglo- 
bin, or anaemia, as it is generally termed. Such are mercury, 
given for syphilis, quinine for ague, &c. 

Alcohol and quinine diminish the oxygenating power of the blood, for they 
render oxyhemoglobin a more stable compound than it usually is, but their 
action in this direction is slight. Citrates and tartrates of the alkaline metals 
are partially oxidized to carbonates at the expense of the oxygen of the red 
blood-corpuscles. Quinine and hydrocyanic acid diminish the ozonizing power 
of the blood. 

The size of the red blood-corpuscles is said to be diminished by carbonic 
acid and morphine, and to be increased by oxygen, hydrocyanic acid, and qui- 
nine, and their number is said to be increased by small doses of mercury, when 
administered for a considerable time. 

A large amount of sodium chloride causes the red corpuscles to pass 
rapidly through the walls of the capillaries. 

There are some drugs which are not employed therapeutically 
for their action on the blood, which are nevertheless very impor- 
tant physiologically and toxicologically, for they kill by altering 
the composition of the haemoglobin, thus preventing its uni- 
ting with oxygen. Such are carbonic oxide, which turns out the 
oxygen from oxyhaemoglobin, hydrocyanic acid, which forms cyano- 
haemoglobin, and chlorate of potassium. Acetanilide, antipyrin, 
phenacetine, and nitrites, especially amyl nitrite, convert the 
haemoglobin into methaemoglobin ; acetanilide, amyl nitrite, and 
chlorate of potassium, like pyrogallic acid, destroy the red cor- 
puscles. 

Phosphorus, arsenic, sulphuretted hydrogen, turpentine, iodine, and sul- 
phur also reduce oxyhaemoglobin. Phosphorus is especially destructive to the 
blood. 

When freshly drawn blood is exposed to the air its oxidization is diminished 
by hydrocyanic acid, alcohol, chloroform, quinine, morphine, nicotine, strych- 
nine, and brucine. 

C. Drugs acting on the White Corpuscles.— Most if 

not all drugs which are poisons to amoebae are poisons to white 
corpuscles when applied in sufficient strength, which, however, is 
rarely the case in the human body, All irritants which set up 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE HEART. 45 

inflammation cause the white blood-corpuscles to wander through 
the capillary walls; and all the cinchona alkaloids, viz. qui- 
nine, quinidine, cinchonine, and cinchonidine, have the power 
of arresting this migration ; of these, quinine is the most power- 
ful. Sulphate of berberine and acetanilide are also powerful. 
If the quinine is circulating in the capillaries, it prevents the white 
corpuscles from wandering out ; if it is applied to the outside of 
the vessels, it prevents the corpuscles from wandering away from 
the vessel through the wall of which they have passed. 

Veratrine applied to white corpuscles outside the body kills them. 

Myrrh and other aromatics are said to increase their production by in- 
creasing absorption from the intestine. 

The following facts do not fall under any of the previous headings : — Poi- 
sonous doses of mercury increase the fluidity of the blood, impair its power of 
coagulation, and diminish the solids in it. Cod-liver oil increases the solids of 
the blood. Iodide of potassium is said to increase the power of coagulation ; 
other substances doing this will be described under astringents. 

Division III. — Drugs acting on the Cardiac Mechanism. 
The heart is capable of spontaneously originating impulses 
which in health begin in the sinus venosus, and spread downwards 
over the auricle and the ventricle to the apex. It used to be con- 
sidered that these movements were due to spontaneous impulses 
proceeding from the cardiac ganglia surrounding chiefly the en- 
trance of the superior and inferior venae cavae, the entrance of the 
pulmonary veins, and the auriculo-ventricular groove ; but we now 
know that there is no certain evidence that these ganglia originate 
impulses, and most of the evidence goes to show that the con- 
traction of the muscular fibres is due to spontaneous impulses 
arising in them. This contractile power of the muscular fibres 
can be inhibited by the vagus, the fibres of which proceed from 
the vagal nucleus in the medulla, and can be augmented by the 
augmentor or accelerator nerve-fibres, which proceed downwards 
in the cervical spinal cord to the upper dorsal nerves, from which 
they pass through the first thoracic ganglion to the sympathetic, 
and so to the cardiac plexus, and thence to the heart. We are 
ignorant of any function for the cardiac ganglia ; we know that 



46 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

medullated nerve-fibres lose their medulla in them, and that more 
fibres proceed from them than enter them. Possibly they have a 
nutritive function. We have, therefore, only to consider the 
action of drugs on the muscular substance of the heart, on the 
vagal or inhibitory fibres, on the vagal centre, on the augmentor, 
accelerator, or sympathetic fibres, and on the accelerator centre. 
The centres are remarkably easily affected by afferent impulses, 
proceeding from the heart itself or from almost any part of the 
body. Our information concerning the action of drugs on the 
heart of man is necessarily rather inexact, for many experiments 
are difficult to perform upon the mammalian heart, consequently 
the cold-blooded animals have been largely used ; and as some ■ 
differences are observed among them — for example, between the 
frog and the tortoise — it is probable that the deductions drawn 
from experiments upon the hearts of warm-blooded animals are 
not wholly applicable to man. In the following account of drugs 
the action described is that of a moderate dose ; the action of a 
very large dose is generally the reverse of that of a moderate dose. 
A. Drugs acting upon the Heart directly. — Our knowl- 
edge of these has been gained by studying the action of drugs 
upon excised hearts or pieces of the heart, and the action of 
drugs locally applied to the heart, either by gently applying a 
solution externally, or by means of a perfusion canula. It is difficult 
to decide whether a drug acts upon the muscular fibre itself, or 
upon the fine nerves between these fibres, so that no attempt will 
here be made to distinguish between these actions. As the apex 
of the heart contains fewer nerves than the rest of the organ, it 
has been concluded that if a drug acts upon the apex, when it is 
cut off from the remainder of the heart, it acts upon the muscle 
only; but it would be difficult absolutely to deny the existence 
of fine nerve-fibres in the apex. The vagus or inhibitory nerv- 
ous mechanism has been much more studied than the accelerat- 
ing. The effect of stimulating the muscle may be either to 
increase the rate or the force of the beat, or to do both ; that of 
stimulating the minute branches of the vagus or its terminations 
in the heart will be either to diminish the rate or the force of 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE HEART. 



47 



the beat, or both; and the effect of stimulating the accelerator 
fibres will be just the opposite : and in each of these cases the 
effect of paralyzing will be the reverse of stimulating. The dis- 
tinction between a stimulating effect on the terminations of the 
vagus and a depressing effect on the terminations of the accel- 
erator nerves might be determined by observing the effect of 
stimulation of each of these nerves before and after the local ap- 
plication of the drug, provided that it has been shown that the 
muscle itself is not affected by the drug ; but this is often diffi- 
cult to prove. It is easily seen that the complexity of the problem 
is so great that it will be most convenient to classify the drugs which 
act locally on the heart by the effect they produce, without attempt- 
ing to say whether they act on the muscle or nerve terminations. 

Drugs increasing the force of the contraction : 



(6) Convallaria Majalis. 

(7) Caffeine. 

(8) Veratrine. 

(9) Erythrophlceum. 



(r) Digitalis. 

(2) Sparteine. 

(3) Strophanthus. 

(4) Squill. 

(5) Saponine. 

In large doses these drugs in frogs always cause arrest of heart in systole ; 
in mammals the final arrest maybe in diastole with some, e.g. digitalis. 
They all slow the pulse. 



<*° 



(») 

(12) 



(13) 



(15) 



Dilute solution 
double salts. 
" of chloral. 

Physostigmine. 



of zinc 



Dilute solutions of salts of 
the alkaline metals. 
' of barium salts, 
of copper double salts. 

(16) Camphor. 

These drugs have the same action without the final arrest in systole, 
rate of the pulse is not markedly altered. 

Drugs the chief action of which is to decrease the force of the contraction , 
usually with stoppage in diastole : 



The 



(1) Dilute acids. 


(7) Muscarine. 


(2) Strong solutions of salts of 


(8) Pilocarpine. 


the alkaline metals. 


(9) Saponine (large doses). 


(3) " of barium salts. 


(10) Apomorphine. 


(4) " of copper double salts. 


(11) Emetine. 


(5) " of zinc double salts. 


(12) Salicylic acid (large doses). 


(6) Strong solutions of chloral. 





48 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



Drugs an important action of which is to increase the rate of the cardiac 
beat : 

(i) Atropine. 

(2) Hyoscyamine. 



(5) Cocaine. 

(6) Sparteine. 

(7) Saponine. 



(3) Daturine. 

(4) Duboisine. 

Drugs an i??iportant action of which is to slow the rate of the cardiac beat 
(see also first list given on the previous page) : 

(1) Muscarine. (2) Pilocarpine. 

Drugs which increase both the force and the number of the beats : 



(1) Alcohol. 

(2) Ether. 

(3) Chloroform. 

(4) Cactus. 



(5) Anaesthetics. 

(6) Arsenical salts. 

(7) Quinine. 

(8) Strychnine. 



* Drugs which decrease both the force and the number of the beats : 



(1) Antimony salts. 

(2) Aconite. 

(3) Hydrocyanic acid. 



(4) Ergot. 

(5) Veratrum Viride. 

(6) Cevadilla. 



B. Drugs acting. on the Vagus Centre. — If we observe 
that the giving of a drug to an animal alters the beat of the heart, 
but that this alteration can be done away with, either by cutting 
the vagi or stimulating the peripheral end of the nerve, — if one 
only of them be cut, — we may conclude that the drug acted on 
the vagus centre in the medulla. 

Drugs which stimulate the vagus centre : that is to say, the pulse is slowed, 
but this slowing disappears on section of the vagi : 



(1) Chloroform. 

(2) Chloral hydrate. 

(3) Butyl chloral. 

(4) Aconite. 

(5) Veratrum Viride. 

(6) Nicotine. 

(7) Digitalis. 

(8) Sparteine. 

(9) Strophanthus. 



(10) Squill. 

(ii) Convallaria Majalis. 

(12) Hydrocyanic acid. 

(13) Staphisagria (Delphinine). 

(14) Atropine. ^ Only very 

(15) Hyoscyamine. V early in their 
(16; Daturine. J action. 

(17) Increased blood-pressure. 

(18) Venous blood. 



Drugs which depress the vagus centre : Large doses of the drugs mentioned 
in the last list, and drugs which diminish the blood-pressure, such as nitrite of 
amyl, nitro-glycerine and the nitriies. 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE VESSELS. 49 

C. Drugs acting on the Accelerating Centre. — We do 

not know anything of drugs which depress this. Some probably 
stimulate it, for their administration renders the pulse still more 
rapid after the vagi have been cut. 



They are — 

(1) Ammonia. 

(2) Caffeine. 

(3) Picrotoxine. 

(4) Cactus. 



(5) Delphinine. 

(6) Any drugs which make the 

blood venous. 



Therapeutics. — The drugs most used for their action on 
the heart are digitalis, sparteine, squill, strophanthus, convallaria 
majalis, caffeine, alcohol, ether, chloroform, cactus, strychnine, 
belladonna, aconite, antimony, and hydrocyanic acid. The 
therapeutic indication for each of these drugs will be found given 
under the individual drug. 

Division IV. — Drugs acting on the Vessels. 

These are usually studied either by directly observing altera- 
tions in the size of the vessels in some thin structure, such as the 
ear of a rabbit, the mesentery, tongue, lung, web, or mylo-hyoid 
muscle of a frog, or the wing of a bat; or the rate of the flow 
may be observed. This can be conveniently done by cutting 
some part, as the toes of a frog, and noticing the rate at which 
the blood flows from the cut vessels with and without the admin- 
istration of the drug to the animal. It is often necessary that an 
artificial circulation should be maintained; for if not, it might be 
difficult to prove that the alteration in the quantity of blood 
flowing from the cut surface was not due to influences acting on 
the cardiac mechanism. In order to determine if the changes 
are due to local or central effects, it is necessary to destroy the 
spinal cord, or to cut the nerves going to the part. When a drug 
is applied locally, as to the mesentery, and the vessels alter, if the 
nerves going to the part are not cut, it is difficult to say whether 
this alteration is direct or reflex. 

Drugs are applied to the interior of vessels by injecting them 
into the circulation. 



5o 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



We know that each vessel is controlled by vaso-constrictor and 
vaso-dilator nerves, and that these proceed by different paths 
from the central nervous system, but we do not know by which 
set of nerves drugs act ; probably some by the vaso-constrictor, 
and some by the vaso-dilator. We can only classify the drugs 
into those which dilate or contract the vessels J>y local action, 
and those which produce these effects through their action on the 
central nervous system. When a drug acts locally we cannot tell 
whether it acts on the muscle in the wall of the vessel, or on the 
nerve terminations. 

It of course follows that drugs acting on the heart, or on a large 
area, will considerably modify the blood-pressure. 

A. Drugs acting locally on Vessels. 

Drugs which, when locally applied to vessels, dilate them : 



(i) Liquor Ammoniae. 

(2) Nitrate of silver (strong). 

(3) Chloride of zinc (strong). 

(4) Nitrate of copper. 

(5) Sulphate of copper (strong). 

(6) Nitrate of mercury. 

(7) Arsenious acid. 

(8) Chloride of antimony. 

(9) Tartrate of antimony and 

potassium. 

(10) Iodine. 

(11) Bromine. 

(12) Chlorine. 

(13) Mineral Acids (strong). 

(14) Alcohol. 1 If prevented 

(15) Ether. \ from evaporat- 

(16) Chloroform. J ing. 



(17) Carbolic acid. 

(18) Creosote. 

(19) All volatile oils, as oil of tur- 

pentine, and many substances 
containing them, as mustard, 
horse radish root, etc. 

(20) Senega. 

(21) Chrysarobinum. 

(22) Ipecacuanha. 

(23) Capsicum. 

(24) Mezereon. 

(25) Croton oil. 

(26) Camphor. 

(27) Cantharides. 

(28) Phosphorus. 

(29) Warmth, however applied, but 

usually as a poultice. 



Irritants. — All the above, as they dilate the vessels, are often spoken of 
as vascular irritants. 

Rubefacients are drugs which, when locally applied to the 
skin, cause it to become red because of the vascular dilatation 
induced. All the above drugs are rubefacients. 

Vesicants. — Many of these drugs are sufficiently powerful 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE VESSELS. 5 1 

irritants to cause inflammation. If this goes no further than the 
exudation of plasma from the vessels, and this plasma collects 
under the epidermis to form vesicles, the drug causing the pro- 
duction of vesicles is said to be a vesicant ; e. g. cantharides. 

Pustulants are such of the above drugs as are sufficiently 
powerful irritants to cause the inflammatory process to proceed to 
the passage of leucocytes through the walls of the capillaries. 
They collect in the vesicles, which consequently become pustules ; 
e. g. croton oil. 

Escharotics or caustics are the most powerful of all the 
above drugs. Their local application destroys the vitality of the 
part to which they are immediately applied, and sets up vascular 
dilatation of the surrounding area; e.g. strong nitric acid, chlo- 
ride of zinc, nitrate of silver, and arsenious acid. 

Counter-irritants. — It has been shown by experiments on 
animals that when the vessels of the skin are dilated by the appli- 
cation of an irritant, those of the subjacent viscera are often 
reflexly contracted. The same is probably true of man. An irri- 
tant is called a counter-irritant when it is applied to the skin with 
the object of altering the size of the vessels of the subjacent vis- 
cera. It is particularly to be remembered that the action is a 
reflex nervous one, and is in no way due to the withdrawal of 
blood into the dilated vessels of the skin. 

Drugs which, when locally applied to vessels, contract them. 

These may act in two ways, either by contracting the muscu- 
lar coat of the vessels, or by coagulating the albuminous fluids 
around them, the coagulum by its contraction constricting the 
vessels. 

Those which act on the i?iuscular coat of the vessels : 



(i) Cold, however produced ; hence 
rapidly volatilizing substances 
as ether. 

(2) Cocaine. 

(3) Lead salts. 

(4) Dilute solutions of silver salts. 

(5) Dilute sulphuric acid. 



(6) Alum. 

(7) Hamamelis. 

(8) Ergot. 

(9) Hydrastis. 

(10) Acetanilide. 

(11) Antipyrin. 



5 2 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



Ergot when in the circulation causes powerful contraction of the muscular 
coat of the arteries. It is not quite certain if this is due to the local action of 
the ergot circulating through the vessels, or to its central action on the vaso- 
motor centre. Ergot applied to the outside of the vessels has no action on 
them. All the above, except the last two, are used in medicine to contract 
vessels. The following has been shown by experiments in the laboratory to 
cause contraction of small arteries through which they circulate. 

Salts of copper, zinc, tin, platinum, barium, all cause powerful contraction. 

Salts of lithium, calcium, strontium, magnesium, cadmium, nickel, cobalt, 
and iron cause slight contraction. 

Acetanilide and antipyrin act on the muscular coat of small vessels as 
powerfully as ergot. 

Those which coagulate the albuminous fluids around the vessels : 



(i) Tannic acid and all sub- 
stances containing it ; e. g. 
galls, krameria, kino, haema- 
toxylon, hamamelis, cinna- 
mon, eucalyptus gum, catechu, 
and probably bael fruit. 



(3) Silver salts. 

(4) Zinc salts. 

(5 ) Copper salts. 

(6) Alum. 

(7) Per-salts of iron. 

(8) Bismuth salts to a slight ex- 
tent. 



(2) Lead salts. 

B. Drugs which act on the Vaso-motor Centres. 

Drugs which, by their action on the vaso-motor centres, dilate the vessels : 



(1) Trinitrin (nitro-glycerine). 

(2) Nitrite of amyl. 

(3) Nitrite of sodium. 

(4) Spiritus Athens Nitrosi. 

(5) Belladonna. 

(6) Stramonium. 

(7) Hyoscyamus. 

(8) Alcohol. 

(9) Ether. 

(10) Chloroform. 



(11) Chloral. 

(12) Tartrate of Antimony and 

Potassium. 

(13) Aconite. 

(14) Ipecacuanha. 

(15) Lobelia. 

(16) Tobacco. 

(17) Veratrine. 

(18) Hydrocyanic acid. 

(19) Opium (slightly). 



Some of the substances, which in small doses contract the vessels by cen- 
tral action, in large doses dilate them ; viz. digitalis and squill. 

Drugs which, by their action on vaso-motor centres, cause contraction of 
vessels : 

(1) Digitalis. 



(2) Strophanthus. 

(3) Sparteine. 

(4) Squill. 

(5) Hamamelis. 



(6) Strychnine. 

(7) Lead salts (slightly). 

(8) Ammonia (slightly). 

(9) Ergot (probably). 



ASTRINGENTS, STYPTICS, EMOLLIENTS. 53 

Also, for a very short early period of their action, some substances whose 
main action is to dilate the vessels by their central action ; viz. belladonna, stra- 
monium, hyoscyamus, alcohol, ether, chloroform, hydrocyanic acid and veratrine. 

Astringents are drugs which diminish the size of the ves- 
sels, and thus decrease the amount of exudation from them. 

Styptics, or Haemostatics, are drugs which stop bleeding. 
They comprehend all astringents, especially cold, lead and 
copper salts, hamamelis, ergot, hydrastis, tannic acid, and above 
all, per-salts of iron, for they coagulate the blood which is flowing 
from the vessel, and the clot prevents further bleeding. Matico 
leaves, because of the numerous hairs on their under surface, 
favor coagulation of blood when locally applied to a bleeding 
surface. Cobwebs act in the same way. 

Therapeutics. — Drugs which locally dilate vessels are con- 
tinually applied to stimulate sores to heal, and to promote ab- 
sorption of inflammatory products, as seen in the application of 
iodine over joints in certain forms of joint disease ; and as coun- 
ter-irritants in many forms of disease of deep-seated organs, as in 
the application of a blister in pleurisy. Drugs which by their 
central action cause dilatation of all the vessels of the body are 
used in certain forms of heart disease, as in the use of nitrite of 
amyl in angina pectoris; and some suppose that the good they do is 
brought about by dilating the vessels and so rendering the work 
of the heart easier. Drugs causing general vascular dilatation 
are also employed to cause dilatation of the vessels of the skin, 
with the object of thereby leading to an increase of perspiration 
and an increased radiation of heat. Alcohol, Spiritus ^Etheris 
Nitrosi, and Ipecacuanha amongst others are used in this way. 

The most important use of astringents is as styptics ; they are 
also used to check excessive discharges of all sorts, as in diarrhoea, 
leucorrhoea, etc., and in relaxed conditions of vessels, such as are 
often seen in pharyngitis. 

There is perhaps no better opportunity than this of mention- 
ing emollients and demulcents. 

Emollients are substances which soften and protect parts. 
The word is usually employed for substances applied to the skin. 



54 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Common emollients are substances soaked in warm water, as hot fomenta- 
tions and poultices, fats of various sorts, as lard and lanolin (hydrous wool fat), 
non-irritating oils, as olive oil, spermaceti, petroleum, vaseline, etc. 

Demulcents are substances which protect and soothe parts. 
They are generally applied to mucous membranes, especially 
when unduly dry, and thus they are often used for the mouth. 

Instances of them are gelatine, isinglass, glycerine, gum, honey, flaxseed, 
starch, and white of egg. 

Division V. — Drugs acting on the Skin. 

All those described in the last section act on the cutaneous 
vessels, but in addition we have — 

A. Diaphoretics, or drugs which increase the amount of 
perspiration. These may do so either by stimulating the sweat 
centres in the spinal cord, the nerves proceeding from the cen- 
tres to the glands, the terminations of the nerves in the gland, or 
the glandular cells themselves; or dilatation of the cutaneous 
vessels may, by the increase in the amount of blood and the 
greater warmth, stimulate the glands and lead to an increase of 
sweat. It is difficult to tell whether drugs acting on the vessels 
do not also act on the other parts of the mechanism ; and it is 
also difficult to decide whether a drug acts on the gland- cells or 
the terminations of the nerves, so we will consider diaphoretics 
under two headings, those which act centrally and those which 
act peripherally. These are differentiated by observing whether 
the drug acts after the spinal cord is destroyed, and on a part of 
the skin after the nerves going to it are cut. 

(a). Diaphoretics acting peripherally : Pilocarpine greatly increases the 
amount of sweat, acting in all probability on the nerve terminations in the 
gland- cells, but certainly not on the vessels. Local applications of warmth, 
and alcohol taken internally perhaps act in the same way in addition to their 
vascular action. 

(b). Diaphoretics acting centrally : 



(i) Nicotine. 

(2) Antimony salts. 

(3) Ammonium acetate. 

(4) Ammonium citrate. 



(5) Ipecacuanha. 

(6) Opium. 

(7) Camphor. 



DIAPHORETICS, ANHIDROTICS. 55 

(<:). Diaphoretics whose mode of action is doubtful : Senega, cubebs, col- 
chicum, salicin, lobelia, arnica, citrate and acetate of potassium. All 
these, except the last two, are very feeble. 

When a diaphoretic acts very powerfully it is called a Sudorific. 

B. Anhidrotics, or Antihidrotics, drugs which diminish 
the amount of perspiration. The part on which these act is de- 
termined in the same way as in the case of diaphoretics, 

(a) Anhidrotics acting peripherally : Atropine is very powerful; it acts on 
the terminations of the nerves in the glands ; and hyoscyamus and stramo- 
nium probably act in the same way. The local application of cold has a sim- 
ilar action. 



(b) Anhidrotics the mode of action of which is doubtful : 

(5) Picrotoxine. 

(6) Zinc salts. 



(1) Acids. 

(2) Muscarine. 

(3) Nux vomica, 

(4) Quinine. 



(7) Salicylic acid. 



Therapeutics. — Diaphoretics are used for three purposes : 
either to increase the amount of sweat because that of the urine is 
failing, and for this purpose pilocarpine is largely used ; or in the 
hope that poisons may be excreted by the sweat, hence the use of 
pilocarpine in uraemia; or as mild antipyretics, in order to increase 
the loss of heat by increased evaporation ; for this purpose alcohol, 
ipecacuanha, acetate of ammonium, and opium were formerly 
much employed, but of late years much more efficient antipyretics 
have been discovered. 

Anhidrotics are used either for general conditions, as phthisis, 
or for local conditions, as sweating of the feet ; but they are not of 
great use in medicine. 

We do not know of any drugs which will alter the composi- 
tion of the sweat, except in so far as that certain drugs may be 
excreted in the sweat when taken internally, such are iodine, 
iodide of potassium, succinic, tartaric, and benzoic acids, the last 
in the form of hippuric acid. 

We have no knowledge of the effects of drugs on the sebaceous 
secretion. 



56 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



Certain drugs when taken internally in large doses produce 
a rash on the skin, possibly because in the course of their excre- 
tion through the skin they irritate it. Such are — 



(i) Copaiba. 


(9) Quinine. 


(2) Cubebs. 


(10) Salicylic acid. 


(3) Bromides. 


(11) Arsenical salts. 


(4) Iodides. 


(12) Acetanilide. 


(5) Turpentine. 


(13) Antipyrin. 


(6) Belladonna. 


(14) Phenacetine. [skin. 


(7) Chloral. 


(15) Silver salts may discolor the 


(8) Opium. 


(16) Sulphonal. 


[lowing quite rarely produce 


an eruption : 


(1) Iron. 


(6) Digitalis. 


(2) Strychnine. 


(7) Sulphur. 


(3) Creosote. 


(8) Antimony. 


(4) Mercury. 


(9) Santonin. 


(5) Veratrum. 


(10) Cod Liver Oil. 



Division VI. — Substances acting on the Urinary System. 

1 . Drugs increasing the quantity of urine secreted. — These 
are called diuretics. The kidney is a double organ with 
two distinct varieties of epithelium ; it is particularly well sup- 
plied with vessels and vaso-motor nerves, and is also profoundly 
under the influence of variations in the blood-pressure ; hence it 
is, with our present state of knowledge, impossible to say how 
many diuretics act, but the following table, modified from Dr. 
Lauder Brunton's work, shows the various ways in which they 
probably act, many in more ways than one. 



DIURETICS. 



57 



' Increased car- j Digitalis, 
diac action \ Alcohol, 



Generally 



Raise 
arterial -I 
pressure 



General vascu- 
lar contraction 



r Act on vaso- 
motor centres 



r Contract effe- 
rent vessels 



Locally in 
L kidney 



Locally on 
kidney 



Dilate afferent J 
vessels 



[ Either act on f 



Digitalis, 

Strophanthus, 

Squill, 

Sparteine, 

Convallaria, 

Strychnine, 

Caffeine, 

Erythrophlceum, 

Cold to skin, 

< ? same as above, 

Broom, 

Buchu, 

Uva ursi, 

Juniper, 

Turpentine, 

Copaiba, 

Cantharides, 



vasomotor J Nitrit 

centres or lo- -{ At , , 
n Alcohol, 

cally on re- ' 



L nal vessels [_ 



Act on secreting 
nerves or renal cells 



Increase water excreted 



Increase water and solids ex- 
creted 



f Urea, 

I Caffeine, 

-j Sodio- Salicylate of 

Theobromine, 
L Calomel, 
Colchicum, 
Liquor potassse, 
Acetateof potassium 
nj Citrate of potassium, 
Nitrate of potassium 
Citrate of sodium, 
and other salines. 

Therapeutics. — Diuretics are used in cardiac and pulmon- 
ary diseases when, owing to the general vascular disturbance, the 
quantity of urine falls below the normal standard. Also in dis- 
eases in which there is excess of fluid in certain parts of the body; 
for example, pleuritic effusion and ascites, with the object of get- 
ting rid of as much fluid as possible by the kidneys. Lastly, in 
certain forms of kidney disease, although in these maladies it is 
always a question how far it is desirable to stimulate diseased or- 
gans. It is of great importance to remember that diuretics may 

act in many different ways, that there are many causes for dimi- 
6 



58 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

nution in the quantity of urine secreted, and that it is difficult to 
say in any particular case what is the cause of the decrease in the 
quantity secreted. Therefore it is usual to give diuretics in com- 
bination, in the hope that if one of them does not have the desired 
result another will. 

2. Drugs diminishing the quantity of urine secreted. — These 
are such as produce acute inflammation of the kidney when given 
in large doses ; e. g turpentine, cantharides, phosphorus. They 
are never given for this purpose in medicine. Exalgine is reputed 
to diminish the quantity of urine. 

3. Drugs rendering the urine acid. — There is only one drug 
that can do this effectually, and that is benzoic acid, for in its 
passage through the kidney it is converted into hippuric acid. 
Benzoic acid is, therefore, given when from any cause the urine 
undergoes alkaline decomposition anywhere within the urinary pas- 
sages. Salicylic acid will, to a slight extent, increase the acidity 
of the urine, as will very large doses of citric acid, tartaric acid, 
citrates and tartrates, and possibly saccharin. 

4. Drugs which render the urine alkaline. — All salts of the 
metals, potassium, sodium, lithium, calcium, will do this; 
even the tartrates, citrates, and acetates, for they escape by the kid- 
ney as carbonates. Nitric acid is said to increase the amount of am- 
monia in the urine, and thus to render it slightly alkaline. Ammo- 
nium salts given internally do not render the urine alkaline, because 
they are decomposed in the body, urea probably being formed. 

Lithontriptics are drugs which prevent the deposition, in 
the urinary passages, of the solids of the urine. If this fluid be 
acid, uric acid often crystallizes out, forming gravel or uric acid 
calculus; less often oxalate of lime crystallizes, giving rise to 
oxalate of lime calculus. When there is any likelihood of the 
formation of either of these calculi alkalies should be given, espe- 
cially the lithia salts. If the urine is undergoing alkaline decom- 
position phosphates are liable to crystallize out. In this case the 
object will be to render the urine acid and aseptic. This will be 
attained by giving benzoic acid or benzoates, salicylic acid or 
salicylates, and urinary antiseptics. 



DRUGS ALTERING THE COMPOSITION OF THE URINE. 59 

Therapeutics. — The chief use of alkalies is to diminish the 
acidity of the urine, so as to render the precipitation of uric acid 
unlikely; or to render it alkaline, so as to attempt to dissolve a 
uric acid calculus. We know of no drug which will dissolve an 
oxalate of lime calculus. Alkalies are also given to gouty subjects, 
partly to alkalize the blood, but also partly to alkalize the urines, 
for such persons are very prone to deposit uric acid in the urine. 
Urate of potassium is much more soluble than urate of sodium, 
and urate of lithium is even more soluble ; citrates and acetates 
are not likely to upset the digestion, consequently the drugs most 
used are the citrates of potassium and lithium. Copious draughts 
of water, by diluting the urine, aid in preventing the deposition 
of uric acid or oxalate of lime calculi. Natural alkaline waters are 
largely used. 

5. Drugs preventing the urine from decomposing. — If the urine 
is retained in the bladder by stricture or from any other cause, it 
will undergo alkaline decomposition, and the same result may be 
brought about by the admixture of pus with the urine. This is 
generally due to inflammation of the pelvis of the kidney or the 
bladder. This decomposition of the urine may be prevented by 
giving drugs which in their excretion by the urine render it asep- 
tic. Such are — 



(1) Benzoic acid. 

(2) Salicylic acid. 

(3) Uva Ursi. 

(4) Copaiba. 



(5) Cubebs. 

(6) Oil of Sandal-wood. 

(7) Saccharin. 

(8) Many volatile oils. 



6. Drugs altering the composition of the urine. — Almost any 
drug will do this, either because it is excreted in the urine, or 
because it sets up some changes in the body the products of which 
are excreted in the urine ; but here we shall only refer to certain 
striking ones. 

Turpentine, cantharides, and salicylic acid in large doses will cause blood 
to appear in the urine, because they set up inflammation of the kidney. 

Chlorate of potassium, amyl nitrite, acetanilide, pyrogallic acid, poisoning 
by the mushroom, Helvetia esculenta, and transfusion of animals' blood, break 
up red blood-corpuscles, and the products are excreted by the urine, rendering 



60 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

it dark. Large doses of mineral acids, arsenic and naphthol are said occasion- 
ally to produce the same result. 

Phosphorus in large doses causes leucine and tyrosine to appear in the 
urine, and the urea is greatly increased. 

The saline diuretics increase the solids of the urine. 

The chrysophanic acid in rhubarb and senna makes the urine, if it is acid, 
a brownish color; if it is alkaline, a purplish red. Logwood renders alkaline 
urine reddish or violet. Santonin colors acid urine yellow or greenish-yellow, 
and alkaline urine reddish. Carbolic acid, naphthalin, creosote, and other pre- 
parations of tar, as well as the arbutin in uva ursi, chimaphila and gaultheria, 
make it dark greenish-brown. Picric acid makes it a bright yellow, and me- 
thyl violet a dark-blue. 

The urine of persons poisoned with carbonic oxide remains sweet for 
months. 

Poisoning by carbonic oxide, curare, amyl nitrite, and turpentine, and 
sometimes mercury, morphine, chloral, prussic acid, sulphuric acid, alcohol, 
lead compounds, and salicylic acid lead to the appearance in the urine of a 
body which like sugar reduces Fehling's copper solution. Some authorities 
state that the urine, after the administration of these drugs, does not contain 
glucose, but glycuronic acid ; for although it reduces blue copper solutions, it 
does not undergo alcoholic fermentation on the addition of yeast. The admin- 
istration of phloridzin, or phlorizin (glycoside from the bark of stem and root of the 
apple, pear, plum and cherry, which when continuously heated with dilute min- 
eral acids is resolved into glucose and phloretin), appears to lead to the produc- 
tion of genuine glucose in the urine. 

Other drugs cause a peculiar odor in the urine ; for example, the smell 
of violets is produced by turpentine. The aromatic odor of cubebs and copaiba 
can be detected in the urine after the administration of these bodies. 

Lead, if taken for long periods, produces chronic interstitial inflammation 
of the kidney. It is stated that rarely mercury will do the same. 

7. Drugs acting on the bladder and urethra. — The only ones 
of any practical value are sedatives to the urinary tract. 

If the urine is decomposing, drugs preventing its decomposition come un- 
der this head. Other sedatives are opium, belladonna, hyoscyamus, pa- 
reira, buchu, and uva ursi, which are direct sedatives to the vesical and 
urethral mucous membrane. If the urine is excessively acid, alkalies are urinary 
sedatives. 

Urinary sedatives are used very largely in cases of cystitis and urethritis, 
whatever the cause may be. Local astringent and antiseptic injections are 
also employed. 



ANTIPYRETICS. 6l 

Division VII. — Drugs acting on the Bodily Heat. 

A. Antipyretics, or Drugs which decrease the Bodily 
Temperature. — There are few if any drugs which can lower the 
temperature in health. Some, it is true, will cause the temperature 
to fall below normal if given to a healthy man in large enough 
doses to induce severe collapse. The word antipyretic is limited 
to those drugs which bring down the temperature when it is raised 
owing to disease. We know that the greatest amount of heat is 
produced in the muscles, and that there is a special part of the 
corpus striatum presiding over this production ; that heat is lost 
mostly by radiation from the vessels of the skin and by the evap- 
oration of sweat, and that these vessels and the sudoriparous 
glands are under the control of the central nervous system. Heat 
is also lost by excretion through the lungs, skin, bowels and 
bladder. It is highly probable that there is a part of the cerebrum 
whose function it is to maintain the balance between the produc- 
tion and the loss. Also all parts of this complex mechanism are 
supplied with blood-vessels, alterations in the calibre of which 
must affect the activity of the parts they supply. 

There is every reason for believing that the part of the central 
nervous system which presides over the loss of heat (thermolysis), 
that which presides over the production of heat (thermogenesis), 
and that which presides over the balance between the production 
and the loss (thermotaxis), can, each of them, be influenced by 
afferent impulses reaching them from various parts of the body, 
and thus we see each of these three functions can probably be 
reflexly affected (see diagram on next page). 

Antipyretics which increase the loss of heat. — All sudorifics and 
all dilators of the cutaneous vessels act as antipyretics. Cold, 
such as a cold bath, increases the loss of heat by direct abstraction. 

Drugs which probably diminish the production of heat. — Our 
knowledge about these is at present uncertain, but it is very prob- 
able that phenacetine, antipyrin, and acetanilide diminish 
the production by their action on the corpus striatum ; and that 
quinine, salicylic acid, salicin, kairin and thallin also 
diminish the production ; but we do not know upon what part of 



62 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



the thermogenetic apparatus they act. A cold bath not only 
abstracts heat, but, after it has been in operation some little time, 
diminishes the production. 




'ess els of Skin 
SweafcGlaacZs 



Antimony, aconite, and digitalis are probably antipyretic through their 
effect on the circulation, but precisely how they act is not known. Sometimes 
the removal of some irritation which is acting reflexly may lower the tempera- 
ature. In this way purgatives are occasionally antipyretics. 



DRUGS ACTING ON RESPIRATION. 63 

Therapeutics. — The sole use of antipyretics is to lower the 
temperature in fever. 

Drugs which increase the loss of heat were formerly popular 
as antipyretics, especially alcohol, nitrous ether, antimony, ipecac- 
uanha, and opium, but now they are not much used. Cold is 
more often employed, either by cold sponging, ice, or a cold bath. 
Sponging with hot water will, by the vascular dilatation and sub- 
sequent sweating it induces, reduce a febrile temperature. 

Of the drugs which probably alter the production, kairin and 
thallin are dangerous because of the collapse they may produce ; 
quinine and salicylic acid are rather uncertain, except in ague and 
rheumatic fever respectively. Acetanilide, antipyrin and phe- 
nacetine are most in demand. They are certain antipyretics, and 
they give rise to less fear of collapse than the others. Acetanilide 
is probably safer than antipyrin. Phenacetine is very safe, but it 
is not so powerful. They are quickly absorbed, and so they act 
promptly ; they are far more powerful antipyretics than any drugs 
which act by increasing the loss of heat, and these are very uncer- 
tain in their action, often not lowering the temperature at all. 
Another reason for preferring drugs which diminish thermogenesis 
is that it is much more rational to lower the temperature by de- 
creasing the production of heat than by increasing the loss, for 
then the production will, if anything, go on faster than before, 
in consequence of the attempt to compensate for the increased 
loss. 

Drugs which cause a rise of temperature. — Belladonna in 
poisonous doses may do this. How it acts is not known. 

Tuberculin, various albumoses, and certain animal poisons such as that of 
shell fish will cause a rise of temperature. Their mode of action is unknown. 

We know of no drugs acting on thermotaxis. 

Division VIII. — Drugs acting on Respiration. 

Respiration can be modified by such very various influences 
that it is difficult to decide upon the exact mode of action of any 
drug which affects it. For example, alterations in the blood and 
in the air will modify it ; the respiratory centre itself may be in- 



64 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

fluenced, either directly, or refiexly from almost any organ in the 
body; or, again, the movements of the respiratory muscles them- 
selves may be interfered with ; and, lastly, respiration is much 
under the influence of the circulatory apparatus. Furthermore, 
the chief object in medicine is to remove the cause of the respir- 
atory difficulty rather than to act upon respiration itself. 

We have already spoken of those drugs which produce changes 
in the blood and the circulation, and the consideration of those 
modifications of the temperature, moisture, and pressure of the 
air which are of value in medicine, belongs to a book on general 
therapeutics. We will, therefore, now consider the respiratory 
drugs under the following heads : 

A. Drugs altering the Composition of the Air in- 
haled. — It is found convenient to administer some drugs, 
although they are not given for their influence on respiration, by 
making the patient inhale them ; such are anaesthetics and nitrite 
of amyl. 

Some drugs when inhaled are particularly irritating to the 
bronchial mucous membrane, causing dilatation of the vessels, 
increased secretion, and refiexly, cough from the stimulation of the 
sensory nerves of the bronchial mucous membrane. 

Such are cold dry air, iodine, bromine, chlorine, senega, ipecacuanha, 
sulphurous anhydride, nitric acid fumes, ammonia, and tobacco. These are 
rarely used therapeutically as inhalations, and their inhalation is to be particu- 
larly avoided in irritable conditions of the bronchi. 

The drugs which, when inhaled, are soothing to the bron- 
chial mucous membrane are — 

Hydrocyanic acid. Conium. 

Inhalations which are used to stimulate the bronchi, that 
is to say, to increase their vascularity, secretion, and muscular 
power, are — 



Carbolic acid, gr. 20. 
Cajeput oil, Ttl 20. 
Creosote, ^ss. 
Cubeb oil, gss. 



Tinctura benzoini composi- 

ta, gss. 
Oleum pini sylvestris, 3 ss. 



DRUGS ACTING ON RESPIRATION. 



65 



The amounts given after each are the quantities that should be added to a 
pint of water at 140 F. 

Inhalations which are used to disinfect foul secretions 
from the bronchial mucous membrane are those of — 



(1) Creosote. 

(2) Iodoform. 

(3) Mild solutions of benzoin. 

(4) Carbolic acid. 



(5) Sulphurous anhydride. 

(6) Oil of juniper. 

(7) Oil of cubeb. 

(8) Oil of eucalyptus. 



Inhalations for relieving spasm of the bronchial tubes are 
those of — 



(4) Ether. 

(15) Nitrite of amyl. 



(1) Conium. 

(2) Stramonium. 

(3) Chloroform. 

B. Drugs acting on the Respiratory Centre. — If the 

drug, when injected into the carotid artery, very quickly pro- 
duces its effect on respiration, it is concluded that it acts on the 
respiratory centre. Another experiment, often used to determine 
whether the drug acts on the centre, or on the vagal terminations 
in the lung, is to cut the vagi and to observe whether it acts sim- 
ilarly before and after the section. 

Drugs which directly stimulate the respiratory centre are — 



(1) Strychnine. 

(2) Ammonia (very powerful), 

(3) Apomorphine. 



(4) Belladonna. 

(5) Stramonium. 

(6) Hyoscyamus. 



Drugs which depress the respiratory centre are — 
(1) Physostigmine (very pow- 



(8) Aconite. 

(9) Veratrine. 

(10) Conium. 

(11) Caffeine. 

(12) Quinine. 

(13) Ipecacuanha. 

(14) Antimony salts (both the 
last very weak.) 

Alcohol, Ether, Chloroform, Caffeine, and Quinine slightly excite before 
they depress. 



erful.) 

(2) Chloral. 

(3) Chloroform. 

(4) Ether. 

(5) Alcohol. 

(6) Opium. 

(7) Hydrocyanic acid. 



66 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



Therapeutics.— The drugs which excite the respiratory 
centre may be used when there is any difficulty in respiration, 
especially with the view of increasing the force of the respiratory 
act whilst other means are employed to get rid of the cause of the 
difficulty. They are, of course, most frequently required in 
diseases of the lungs, especially bronchitis. Ammonia and 
apomorphine are often employed, as they are also powerful ex- 
pectorants ; and belladonna is useful when there is too much 
secretion from the bronchial tubes. 

Substances which depress the respiratory centre are very little 
needed for this action ; but the centre for the reflex act of cough- 
ing is in the close neighborhood of the respiratory centre, and 
opium, hydrocyanic acid, conium, and ipecacuanha are 
often very valuable in allaying the continual hacking cough 
which so frequently accompanies disease of the heart and lungs. 

The drugs which relieve cough are very numerous, for it may 
be reflexly set up by irritation of so many peripheral parts, viz. 
nose, throat, pharynx, ear, teeth, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs, 
pleura, stomach, and liver ; and consequently its removal may 
depend upon the removal of peripheral irritation in any of these 
organs. 

C. Drugs affecting the Bronchial Secretion. 



(#) Those increasing it : 

(i) Apomorphine. 

(2) All alkalies, especially car- 

bonate and other salts of 
ammonium. 

(3) Cocillana. 

(4) Ipecacuanha. 

(5) Senega. 

(6) Squills. 

(7) Turpentine. 

(8) Camphor. 



(9) Benzoin. 

(10) Balsam of Peru. 

(11) " " Tolu. 

(12) Antimony salts. 

(13) Sulphur. 

(14) Iodine. 

(15) Tobacco. 

(16) Jaborandi. 

(17) Many volatile oils. 



(b) Those decreasing it 

(1) Acids. 

(2) Belladonna. 



(3) Stramonium. 

(4) Hyoscyamus. 



EXPECTORANTS. 67 

(c) Those disinfecting it. — Drugs which, when inhaled, act in this way 
have already been mentioned. Copaiba, cubebs, and many volatile oils are 
excreted partly by the bronchial mucous membrane, and thus will disinfect the 
secretion. 

Therapeutics. — In bronchitis, remedies which increase the 
secretion are used when it is so viscid that it sticks to the tubes 
and cannot be coughed up ; and those which decrease it are em- 
ployed when it is too watery to be easily expectorated. The use 
of the disinfectants is obvious. 

D. Drugs relaxing Spasm of the Muscular Coat of 
the Bronchial Tubes, or Antispasmodics. — It is believed 
that in asthma there is a spasmodic contraction of the bronchial 
tubes, and as — 



(1) Stramonium, 

(2) Belladonna, 

(3) Hyoscyamus, 



(4) Grindelia, 

(5) Quebracho, 



relieve asthma, it is concluded that these drugs relax spasm of the 
muscular coat of the bronchial tubes. Stramonium is the most 
powerful. It is very likely, judging by their analogous action in 
other parts of the body, that the following drugs act in the same 
way: 

Chloroform, Ether, Opium, Chloral, Cannabis Indica, Amyl Nitrite, and 
Conium. 

Therapeutics. — Stramonium is of great use in asthma, and 
this and the other drugs may be employed for cases of bronchitis 
in which it is probable that the irritation caused by the inflam- 
mation of the tubes sets up spasm of them. Many of these 
muscular depressants in all probability depress the nerves at the 
same time. 

E. Drugs acting on the Vessels of the Bronchi. — 
These are the same as have been already described as act- 
ing on the vascular system generally. 

F. Expectorants. — The modes of action of drugs acting 
on the respiratory system are so complex that it is usual to regard 
most of them clinically simply as drugs which hinder or aid the 



68 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



expectoration of the contents of the bronchial tubes. Those 
which aid it are divided into two groups, named after their ac- 
tion, not on the lungs, but on the circulation. 

I. Sti7nidating expectorants. — These are stimulants to the circulation gen- 



(8) Balsam of Tolu. 

(9) " " Peru. 

(10) Turpentine preparations, 
(n) Terebene. 

(12) Oleum Pini Sylvestris. 

(13) Nux vomica. 

(14) Sulphur. 

-These depress the general circulation, 



erally. They are — 


(1) Acids. 


(2) Ammonium salts. 


(3) Cocillana. 


(4) Senega. 


(5) Squills. 


(6) Benzoin. 


(7) Benzoic acid. 


2. Depressing Expectoi'ants. 


They are — 


(1) Alkalies. 


(2) Antimony salts. 


(3) Ipecacuanha. 


(4) Lobelia. 



(5) Jaborandi. 

(6) Apomorphine. 

(7) Iodide of potassium. 



Therapeutics. — It is almost impossible to lay down any 
general directions. The prescriber must consider in any case be- 
fore him whether he wishes to stimulate or to depress the circula- 
tion, to increase or to diminish or to disinfect the expectoration, 
to stimulate the respiratory centre, to overcome spasm of the 
bronchial tubes, or to allay a hacking cough ; and he must com- 
bine his remedies according to the answer he makes to these ques- 
tions. Warmth to the chest and warm drinks are sedative, and 
increase the amount of secretion. Cold and cold drinks have 
an opposite effect. 

Division IX. — Drugs acting on the Digestive Apparatus. 

A. Drugs acting on the Teeth. — Soaps and powders are 
used for cleaning the teeth. The basis of most tooth powders 
is chalk, which acts mechanically ; charcoal is sometimes used in 
the same way. As the food is very liable to collect and decom- 
pose between the teeth, antiseptics, as quinine, borax, and car- 
bolic acid, are often mixed with tooth powders. Astringents, 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE DIGESTIVE APPARATUS. 69 

such as rhatany and areca nut, are employed if the gums are too 
vascular. Mineral acids and alum are injurious to the teeth if 
used for a long time, and iron is liable to stain them, therefore 
these substances are best taken through a glass tube, and should 
not be used as gargles for long periods. 

Toothache may be relieved by local anodynes, as opium, 
creosote, or pure carbolic acid. The tooth is plugged with 
absorbent cotton soaked in one of these. A piece of clean cot- 
ton must be placed over the carbolized cotton to prevent the car- 
bolic acid from reaching the mouth. 

B. Drugs acting on the Salivary Gland. — Much at- 
tention has been devoted to the submaxillary gland of the dog, 
and there is no reason for supposing that the other salivary glands 
of that animal or of other creatures differ markedly from it. We 
know that the submaxillary gland is under the influence of the 
chorda tympani nerve, which contains vaso-dilator fibres, and also 
some which directly modify the secretion of the gland apart from 
the secondary effects, due to the alterations in the vessels, obtained 
when the chorda tympani is stimulated. This nerve has its cen- 
tre in the medulla, and is capable of being excited reflexly by 
stimulation of many nerves, even the sciatic, but especially by 
stimulation of the gastric branches of the vagus, and by the ter- 
minations in the tongue and mouth of the glosso-pharyngeal and 
gustatory nerves. The gland is also supplied with sympathetic 
branches which proceed from the cervical sympathetic trunk ; 
these are vaso constrictor, and can also modify the quality of the 
secretion, but we do not know so much about them as we do about 
the chorda tympani. Drugs which increase the amount of saliva 
have been called sialogogues ; those which decrease it, anti-sial- 
ogogues. It is clear that there are very many ways in which each 
of these might act, but here it will suffice to enumerate only those 
ways in which they are known to act. 

1. Sialogogues acting either on the secretory cells or upon the 
terminations of the nerves in them. — Of these jaborandi has been 
most studied, and, by means of the experiments it has been proved 
to act either on the cells themselves or the terminations of the 



70 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

nerves in them. It acts equally well after section of all the 
nerves going to the gland. It acts when it is injected directly 
into the gland bat it is prevented from reaching the general cir- 
culation. If it has been given, stimulation of the chorda or sym- 
pathetic produces no more effect on the amount of secretion than 
can be easily explained by the vascular effects. 

Sialogogues falling under this heading are — 



(i) Jaborandi, 

(2) Muscarine, 

(3) Compounds of Iodine, 



(4) Mercury, 

(5) Tobacco, 

(6) Physostigmine. 

The last two probably act also by stimulating the centre in the medulla, 
for section of the chorda tympani decidedly lessens the secretion caused by 
them. Physostigmine soon ceases to cause an increase of the secretion, for it 
tightly contracts the vessels of the gland. 

2. Sialogogues acting reflex ly by stimulating the peripheral ends 
of afferent nerves, — Of these there are two important varieties: 

(a) Those stimulating the gustatory and glosso-pharyngeal nerves in the 
mouth : 



(5) Ether. 

(6) All pungent substances, as 

mustard, ginger, &c. 



(1) All Acids and 

(2) Acid Salts. 

(3) Chloroform. 

(4) Alcohol. 

(6) Those stimulating the vagus in the stomach : 

Most emetics, especially Antimony and Ipecacuanha. 

3. Anti-sialogogues acting either on the secreting cells or the 
terminations of the nerves in them. — Of these atropine has been 
most studied, and it is proved to act directly on the gland by the 
fact that the administration of it prevents any increase of salivary 
secretion on stimulation of the chorda, although the vessels dilate 
as usual. It is highly probable that it acts upon the nerve termina- 
tions, because even after considerable doses, quite paralyzing the 
secretion of chorda tympani saliva, stimulation of the sympathetic 
will still induce secretion. 

Anti-sialogogues falling under this heading are — 



(1) Belladonna, 

(2) Hyoscyamus, 



(3) Stramonium, and 

(4) Nicotine in excess. 



SIALOGOGUES. 7 1 

4. Anti-sialogogues acting reflex ly by depressing the peripheral 
ends of afferent nerves. — Alkalies, opium, and any substances 
which allay irritation of the mouth. Part of the effect of opium 
is due to its depressing action on the medullary centre. 

Therapeutics. — A deficiency in the amount of saliva secre- 
ted is seen most markedly in fever, when the mouth becomes 
very dry, and the patient complains of thirst. Sometimes it is a 
disease in itself, and the origin of this malady is then probably 
nervous. It is a prominent symptom of belladonna poisoning. 
In fever, acid drinks, especially those containing carbonic acid 
gas, lemonade, etc., are of use as sialogogues. Drinks which re- 
lieve this febrile thirst are called Refrigerants. For the disease 
known as " dry mouth " jaborandi has been used, and it will 
relieve the dryness due to belladonna poisoning. Excessive sali- 
vary secretion is hardly met with except as a symptom of poison- 
ing, especially by mercury or jaborandi. In some forms of indi- 
gestion the saliva has a very unpleasant taste, and may even be 
diminished in quantity, but then the indication is to treat the in- 
digestion. 

C. Drugs acting on the Stomach. — Strictly speaking, 
we ought to consider these under the following heads : — (a). 
Those drugs which, either by modifying the secretion of pepsin, 
or in some other way directly influence the conversion of proteids 
into peptone, parapeptone and albumose. (<£). Those which in- 
fluence the property possessed by the gastric juice of curdling 
milk. (r). Those which modify the secretion of acid. (*/). Those 
which modify the secretion of mucus. (<?). Those which influence 
the nerves of the stomach. (/). Those which act on the vessels. 
(g). Lastly, those which are emetics. Our knowledge, how- 
ever, is not sufficient to enable us to do this, and the most useful 
classification is into those affecting the secretion of gastric juice 
as a whole, the secreted contents, the vessels, the nerves, the 
movements, and emetics. 

1. Drugs increasing the amount of gastric juice secreted. — 
These are usually called stomachics, and include a great many 
substances. Stimulants to the mouth reflexly increase the secre- 



72 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

tion of gastric juice ; all bitter and aromatic substances act in 
this way, and they also increase the appetite. The mere presence 
of food in the stomach stimulates the gastric flow. Probably 
aromatics and bitters act also on the stomach itself. 

The drugs which increase the flow of gastric juice are — 



(5) Ether. 

(6) Chloroform. 

(7) Magnesia. 

(8) Carbonate of magnesium. 

(9) Pungent substances (pepper, 

mustard, horseradish). 



(1) Aromatics. 

(2) Bitters. 

(3) All alkalies (especially bicar- 

bonates of potassium and 
sodium, and Spiritus Ammo- 
nise Aromaticus). 

(4) Alcohol. 

Therapeutics. — Stomachics are very largely used for the 
purpose of increasing the secretion of gastric juice in cases of 
dyspepsia. 

2. Drugs decreasing the amount of gastric juice secreted. 

(1) Mineral acids. (2) Acetic acid. (3) Many of those in the last list 
if given in large doses, e. g. alcohol, ether, chloroform. 

Therapeutics. — These drugs are never employed for this 
effect. It is particularly to be observed that while alkalies in- 
crease the secretion of the gastric juice, which is acid, they 
diminish that of the saliva, which is alkaline; but acids increase 
the secretion of the alkaline saliva, but diminish that of the acid 
gastric juice. 

3. Drugs altering the composition of the gastric contents. — 
Acids and alkalies naturally modify the reaction of the gastric 
contents. For this purpose dilute mineral acids are often pre- 
scribed to be taken about two hours after a meal, in cases in 
which the cause of indigestion is thought to be that the amount 
of hydrochloric acid secreted is deficient. If the acid were given 
at meal-time it would prevent the secretion of the natural acid; 
but by giving it after the meal, when all the acid that the gastric 
juice is capable of forming has been secreted, the drug carries on 
the act of digestion. In case of indigestion in which, from the 
nature of vomited matters or from any other reason, it is consid- 
ered that there is an excess of acid in the stomach, alkalies are 



STOMACHICS. 73 

given at meal-times, the favorite drug being bicarbonate of 
sodium. 

Pepsin is given, usually in combination with dilute hydro- 
chloric acid, when it is probable that the cause of the indigestion 
is the secretion of too small an amount of pepsin ; but in this, as 
in every other variety of dyspepsia, it is far more important to 
remove the cause of indigestion than to endeavor to modify the 
composition of the secreted gastric juice. 

Many attempts have been made to try by the administration 
of antiseptics to prevent fermentation and putrefaction from 
going on in the stomach, but with only fair success, for a suffi- 
cient dose of any antiseptic is likely to be poisonous to the patient, 
and too large doses of antiseptics may hinder normal digestion. 

Here even more than in the last case the right treatment 
is to remove the cause of the putrefaction. 

Drugs that have been used for this purpose are — 



(i) Carbolic acid. 

(2) Iodoform. 

(3) Boric acid. 

(4) Creosote. 

(5) Eucalyptus. 

(6) Thymol. 



(7) Salicin. 

(8 ) Salicylate of bismuth. 

(9) Hyposulphite of sodium. 

(10) Sulpho-carbolate of sodium 

(11) Sulphurous anhydride. 

(12) /?-Naphthol. 

Charcoal has been employed, but when it is moist it is useless. 

4. Drugs which dilate the vessels of the stomach. — The vessels 
of the stomach are very sensitive to irritation. They easily 
dilate upon mechanical irritation, and the presence of food, 
especially peptones, causes the vascularity of the mucous mem- 
brane to increase. Within limits greater vascularity is an advan- 
tage, for it not only favors the secretion of gastric juice, but it 
facilitates absorption. 

The substances which increase the vascularity of the stomach 
are all stomachics (except alkalies), dilute mineral acids, the 
drugs which have already been enumerated as irritants generally, 
and squill, digitalis, colchicum, senega, copaiba, cambogia, gua- 
iacum, and veratrine. This is a very long list, and many of the 
substances in it are never employed for their irritant effect; in 
7 



74 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

fact, the only ones in common use are the stomachics; the others 
are far too powerful, even small doses of them set up inflammation 
of the gastric wall, which is also produced by over-indulgence in 
stomachics, as we constantly see in the gastritis induced by alco- 
hol. The therapeutic indications for this class of drugs are the 
same as those for stomachics generally. 

Gastro-intestinal irritants. — In describing the individual ac- 
tions of drugs the statement is frequently made that they are 
gastro-intestinal irritants, and that is a convenient opportunity 
for describing the symptoms produced in health by these drugs. 
If the drug has a caustic action, as many gastro-intestinal irri- 
tants have, the swallowing of it will cause considerable pain in 
the mouth and pharynx; in a short time these parts will become 
severely inflamed, and consequently very much reddened, swollen 
and painful. The tongue will be often much enlarged. If the drug 
is corrosive, sloughs, generally white in color at first, with a se- 
verely inflamed area around them, will be seen ; as they fall off 
they will leave ulcers. Owing to the pain and swelling, it will 
for some time be impossible to take any food, or at the best only 
that of a soft or fluid nature. Directly the drug reaches the 
stomach intense irritation is set up, consequently the patient feels 
severe abdominal pain, and generally soon there is violent retch- 
ing and vomiting. As the poison passes on, it produces its severe 
irritant effects on the intestine, and diarrhoea sets in. Both the 
vomited matters and the motions often contain blood. The gen- 
eral symptoms are an anxious countenance, small feeble pulse, 
scanty urine, a low temperature, and all the symptoms of col- 
lapse. Later on the gastro-intestinal irritation may be severe 
enough to set up general peritonitis, or a gastric ulcer may form, 
and then there may be added to the case all the symptoms of 
gastric ulcer and its sequelae. The inflammation of the oesopha- 
gus may lead to its contraction. At the post-mortem examina- 
tion, if the patient has died soon after the administration of the 
poison, the stomach will be very red and ecchymosed, with a 
swollen mucous membrane. Parts of the intestine will be in 
the same condition. This severe inflammation may, in many 



CARMINATIVES. 75 

places, have led to the formation of sloughs. It must be remem- 
bered that many gastro-intestinal irritants have no action on the 
mouth. 

5. Drugs which contract the gastric vessels. — These are the 
same as those which have already been enumerated as being 
generally astringent. They are much more used for the intestine 
than the stomach, and will therefore be considered in detail 
presently (p. 83.) 

6. Drugs acting on the nerves of the stomach. — All drugs 
powerfully irritant to the stomach cause pain in it ; those that are 
only slightly irritant give rise to a sensation of warmth. It is 
never desired to produce gastric pain. 

Gastric sedatives. — These drugs are the same as those which 
are local sedatives to other parts of the body. Those most used 
for the stomach are — 



(1) Carbonate of bismuth. 

(2) Subnitrate of bismuth. 

(3) Opium. 

(4) Hydrocyanic acid. 

(5) Carbonic acid. 



(6) Ice. 

(7) Belladonna. 

(8) Hyoscyamus. 

(9) Stramonium. 



They are employed in the very many painful forms of dyspep- 
sia. All, except perhaps stramonium, are in frequent use. 

7. Drugs acting on the movements of the stomach. — It has been 
observed that the movements of the stomach increase as the acidity 
of the contents increases. If it be that the acidity is the cause of 
the movements, anything which causes an increase of acidity will 
lead to more powerful movements. Apart from this, strychnine 
appears directly to stimulate the plain muscle of the gastric wall. 
Stomachics also probably aid the movements, so that our com- 
plete list will be mineral acids, nux vomica, and the stomachics. 

The proper churning up of the gastric contents is so necessary, 
that the value in dyspepsia, of drugs which aid the gastric move- 
ments is very great. Hence the frequency with which nux vomica 
enters into antidyspeptic acid mixtures. 

Carminatives. — This term is often applied to substances which 
aid the expulsion of gas from the stomach and intestines. They 



J 6 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

act by stimulating the gastric and intestinal movements. It has 
been found from clinical observation that the most efficient car- 
minatives are — 



(i) Stomachics generally, espe- 
cially — 

(2) Aromatics, 

(3) Bitters, 

(4) Pungent substances, 



(5) Asafcetida, 

(6) Ammoniacum, 

(7) Valerian, and 

(8) Camphor. 



8. Emetics. — It is well known that the many complicated 
mechanisms involved in the act of vomiting are under the con- 
trol of a centre in the medulla, which is capable of being stimu- 
lated by afferent impulses reaching it from many sources, such as 
the cerebrum, as when sights or smells cause sickness, the mouth, 
the pharynx, the oesophagus, the lungs, the heart, the stomach, 
the intestines, the biliary passages, the kidney, the peritoneum, 
and the uterus ; so that the drugs acting on any of these organs, 
or on the centre itself, might be emetics. But it is usual, in de- 
scribing drugs which cause vomiting, to mention only those which 
do so either by acting on the stomach or on the centre in the 
medulla, and they are divided into two corresponding classes. 
Those acting on the stomach are sometimes called direct emetics, 
because they act directly on the stomach ; and those influencing 
the medulla are called indirect; but some authors reserve the 
word direct for those acting on the medulla, and speak of those 
affecting the stomach as indirect. Considering this confusion, it 
is better to divide emetics into gastric and central. By means of 
the following experiments we determine to which group any drug 
belongs. 

(1) The emetic is injected directly into the circulation. If 
very shortly after this vomiting takes place, the drug must have 
acted on the medulla, to which it has been carried by the circu- 
lation ; but if some time elapses we conclude it acted on the 
stomach, and that it was first excreted into this organ before 
vomiting took place. This experiment may be made still more 
striking by injecting directly into the carotid, for then the me- 
dulla is quickly reached. 



EMETICS. 



77 



(2) If the least quantity of the drug which, when injected 
into the circulation, will produce vomiting is larger than is neces- 
sary when it is introduced directly into the stomach, the infer- 
ence is that the drug acts primarily on the stomach, and that when 
it produces vomiting after injection into the circulation it only 
does so because some of it has been excreted into the stomach. 

(3) If the drug will not produce vomiting after injection into 
the circulation when the stomach is replaced by a bladder, it 
shows that it acted directly on the stomach ; but if vomiting is 
produced it shows that the drug acted on the medulla, and that 
the vomiting is caused by the contraction of the abdominal mus- 
cles. 

(4) If the drug takes a long while to act after its introduction 
into the stomach, it probably acts centrally ; and the reason for 
the delay is that sufficient time must elapse for the drug to be 
absorbed. 

In spite of these experiments it is difficult to be sure about the 
action of emetics, for some act in both ways, and some may in 
the course of their circulation through the blood act upon some 
of the many parts of the body from which the vomiting centre 
receives afferent impulses. 

The following is a list of those emetics which are commonly used. 

Emetics acting on the stoi?iach : 



(1) Alum. 

(2) Carbonate of ammonium. 

(3) Sulphate of copper. 

(4) Sulphate of zinc. 



(5) Chloride of sodium. 

(6) Mustard. 

(7) Warm water. 



Of these sulphate of zinc and sulphate of copper act slightly on the me- 
dulla. 

Emetics acting on the medullary centre : 

(1) Apomorphine. 1 (4) Senega. 

(2) Tartar emetic. (5) Squill. 

(3) Ipecacuanha. 

Of these tartar emetic and ipecacuanha act partly on the stomach. The first 
three are very powerful emetics, and are much more depressant in their action 
than the gastric emetics. 



78 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Therapeutics. — Emetics have two uses. Firstly, to remove 
the contents of the stomach. Thus when that organ is over-full, 
and there is a feeling of nausea, an emetic by emptying t v e 
stomach may relieve. Emetics are largely used to empty the 
stomach in cases of poisoning, and they may benefit certain cases 
of sick headache. An emetic occasionally aids the expulsion of 
a foreign body which has become impacted in the fauces or 
oesophagus. Secondly, emetics are used to expel the contents of 
the air-passages, especially in children, for they cannot expec- 
torate well. For this purpose these drugs are given to help chil- 
dren to expel the morbid products in bronchitis, laryngitis, and 
diphtheria. They also aid the expulsion of foreign bodies that 
have become impacted in the larynx. In choosing an emetic it 
will be remembered that although apomorphine, ipecacuanha, 
and .tartar emetic are the most powerful they are the most 
depressant, and are therefore not suitable in many cases — such, 
for instance, as poisoning accompanied by severe collapse. When 
the poison is a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant, if the condi- 
tion of the mouth and oesophagus will allow of it, it is preferable 
to wash out the stomach rather than to use an emetic. 

Emetics are not permissible for patients suffering from 
aneurism, hernia, prolapse of uterus or rectum, peritonitis, or a 
tendency to haemorrhage, because of the straining induced by 
the vomiting, which should make us cautious in giving them to 
those who have disease of their vessels or high tension in them, 
for the straining may lead to haemorrhage. 

9. Antiemetics. — The causes of vomiting are so numerous that 
the number of drugs which may stop vomiting is very large; 
therefore, as in the case of emetics, we can only consider those 
which act either on the stomach or on the centre in the medulla. 

Antiemetics acting on the sto7nach. — These are all those sub- 
stances which have been already enumerated as having a seda- 
tive influence on the gastric nerves, viz. : 

(1) Ice, (2) Carbonate of bismuth, (3) Subnitrate of bismuth, (4) 
Opium, (5) Hydrocyanic acid, (6) Carbonic acid. Also some drugs which 
occasionally appear to have a specific local action in arresting vomiting ; such 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE INTESTINES. 79 

are (7) Cocaine, (8) Oxalate of cerium, (9) minute doses (iTTL) of Vinum 
Ipecacuanhae, (10) minute doses (iTTL) of Tincture of iodine, (11) minute 
doses of Arsenious acid, (12) small doses of each of Alcohol, (13) Carbolic 
acid, (14) Chloroform, (15) Creosote, (16) Ether, (17) Nitrate of silver, 
and (18) Sulphocarbolates. 

Antiemetics acti?ig centrally — 

(1) Opium. (2) Bromides of ammonium, (3) of potassium, and (4) 
of sodium. (5) Chloral hydrate. (6) Nitrite of amyl. (7) Nitro-gly- 
cerine. (8) Dilute hydrocyanic acid. (9) Alcohol. It will be noticed 
that some drugs fall under both headings. 

Therapeutics. — The very name of these drugs indicates 
their therapeutical application. At the best they are only pallia- 
tive; the right way to treat vomiting is, if possible, to remove 
the cause. Of antiemetics, ice, dilute hydrocyanic acid, car- 
bonic acid, bismuth salts, morphine, and iodine are perhaps the 
most reliable, but all are very uncertain. 

D. Drugs acting on the Intestines. — Many secretions 
are poured into the intestine, the food is much altered by the 
time it arrives there, and it is changed in its course down the 
intestine; the physiology of intestinal digestion, of the move- 
ments and the nervous mechanisms of the intestine are imper- 
fectly known; drugs may be considerably altered by the time 
they come to this part of the alimentary canal, and its diseases 
are little understood ; consequently we cannot arrange the action 
of drugs in a physiological classification. We know, in fact, of 
only two divisions, purgatives and astringents. 

The methods of experiment which have been used to deter- 
mine the mode of action of purgatives are chiefly those of Thiry 
and Moreau. The first-named observer cut the intestine across 
in two places a short distance apart: the isolated part which was 
still attached to the mesentery was sewn up at one end ; the other, 
the open end, was attached to the abdominal wall, and thus 
there was a test-tube-like piece of intestine into which drugs 
could be placed. The parts of gut, either side of the excised 
piece were sewn together, so that the whole intestine was the 
same as before but a little shorter. This method did not give 



8o 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



very satisfactory results, and consequently Moreau devised his 
experiments, which seem more trustworthy. He put four lig- 
atures round the intestine at equal distances apart, so that he 
shut off from the rest of the gut and from each other three pieces 
of intestine, each of the same length. With a fine syringe he in- 
jected into the middle piece the drug to be experimented upon, 
and returned the whole into the abdominal cavity. In a few 
hours the animal was killed, and the state of the interior of the 
middle piece was contrasted with that of the pieces either side of 
it. Before Moreau' s experiments there had been much discussion 
as to whether some purgatives did not act only by increasing the 
action of the muscular coat, and others only by stimulating the 
secretions, but from these experiments it appears that probably the 
majority act in both ways, some very slightly on the secretion and 
powerfully on the muscle, and others slightly on the muscle and 
powerfully on the secretion. We will first consider intestinal 
purgatives, and then intestinal astringents. 

Purgatives are divided into the following classes. 

Laxatives. — These are substances which slightly increase the 
action of the bowels chiefly by stimulating their muscular coat. 

They are — 



(i) Whole meal bread. 

(2) Honey. 

(3) Treacle. 

(4) Most fruits, especially- 

(5) Tamarinds. 

(6) Figs. 

(7) Prunes, and 

(8) Stewed apples. 

(9) Manna. 
(10) Cassia. 



(it) Sulphur. 

(12) Magnesia. 

(13) Olive oil. 

(14) Castor oil (small doses) 

(15) Ergot. 

(16) Physostigma. 

(17) Nux vomica. 

(18) Belladonna. 

(19) Hyoscyamus, and 

(20) Stramonium, 



I- 



Not used 
except 
under 
medical 
orders. 



These are all of them domestic remedies employed for slight 
cases of constipation, especially in children; some, as brown 
bread, fruits, honey, form articles of diet with persons who are 
liable to constipation. Nux vomica is most valuable ; it is probably a 
direct stimulant to the muscular coat, hardly influencing secre- 
tion. It is largely used in cases of chronic constipation, espe- 






PURGATIVES. 8 1 

cially when occurring in anaemic persons, or in those in whom, 
for any reason, it is likely that the intestinal peristalsis is feeble. 

Belladonna in small doses increases peristaltic movements 
because it paralyzes the inhibitory fibres of the splanchnics, but 
in moderate doses it completely arrests peristaltic movements. 
It is chiefly employed for this latter purpose, especially in com- 
bination with opium. Hyoscyamus acts on the intestines in the 
same way, and small doses of it are often given with other pur- 
gatives to prevent griping, for it gives an orderly rhythm to the 
irregular contractions which the stronger purgatives produce. 

Ergot and physostigma are hardly ever used for their laxative 
effect. 

Simple purgatives. — These are rather more powerful in their 
action than laxatives. They stimulate peristalsis and also increase 
secretion. Some of the laxatives, as castor oil and magnesia, 
when given in large doses become simple purgatives. 

The simple purgatives are — 



(i) Aloes. 

(2) Rhubarb. 

(3) Rhamnus Frangula. 



(4) Cascara Sagrada. 

(5) Senna. 

(6) Fel Bovis. 



These are all, except the last, in common use. The indications 
for each will be given under the individual drug. 

Drastic purgatives ', often called cathartics. — These excite 
greatly increased secretion and peristaltic movements, and if 
given in large doses cause severe irritation of the intestine with 
much secretion of mucus, great vascular dilatation and even 
haemorrhage, severe abdominal pain and collapse, with profuse 
diarrhoea. The peristaltic contractions are often irregular, and 
hence there may be much griping pain; therefore it is usual to 
prescribe hyoscyamus with these drugs, which are in order of 
efficiency — 



(1) Calomel. 

(2) Podophyllum. 

(3) Leptandrin. 

(4) Aloes. 

(5) Jalap. 

(6) Scammony. 



(7) Gamboge. 

(8) Oleum Terebinthinse. 

(9) Colocynth. 

(10) Elaterium, and 

(11) Croton oil. 



82 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

The most powerful are placed last. Some, as jalap, elaterium, scammony , are 
often called hydragogue, because of the large amount of secretion they excite. 

Therapeutics. — Drastic purgatives are employed in obstinate 
constipation, and also to produce very watery evacuations with 
the object of removing as much fluid from the body as possible. 
Hence the frequent use of jalap in Bright' s disease. 

Saline purgatives. — The action of these is obscure, but it seems 
certain that they very greatly increase the secretion of intestinal 
fluid, and hinder its reabsorption, so that a large amount of it 
accumulates in the intestine. The distension due to this accumu- 
lation excites gentle peristalsis, and consequently an easy painless 
evacuation of the bowels. Secretion goes on till the fluid in the 
intestine has become a 5 or 6 per cent, solution of the drug, so 
that if a very concentrated solution is given, much intestinal fluid 
is secreted. There is some doubt whether osmosis plays any part 
in the process. The saline purgatives are — 



(1) Tartrate of potassium. 

(2) Acid tartrate of potassium. 

(3) Sulphate of potassium. 

(4) Sulphate of sodium. 



(5) Tartrate of sodium. 

(6) Citro- Tartrate of sodium, 

(7) Phosphate of sodium. 

(8) Sulphate of magnesium. 



Therapeutics. — These are very largely used as habitual 
purgatives, especially for persons suffering from any form of gout. 
They form the essential ingredient of most purgative mineral 
waters, as Hunyadi, Janos, Pullna, Friedrichshall, ^Esculap, Rubi- 
nat, Villacabras, etc. 

The best way of taking them is* to put the required dose of the 
salt or the mineral water in a tumbler, add some lukewarm water, 
and sip it slowly while dressing in the morning. 

Cholagogue purgatives will be described when speaking of the 
liver. 

Enemata. — Any fluid preparation given per rectum is called 
an enema. When a purgative is liable to produce sickness, or it 
is inadvisable because of peritonitis, intestinal obstruction, ulcer- 
ation, or other disease to give it by the mouth, it may be given 
per rectum. Castor oil, aloes, olive oil, sulphate of magnesium, 
etc., may be administered in this way. Enough of a vehicle must 



INTESTINAL ASTRINGENTS. 8$ 

always be used to make a purgative enema up to three-quarters of 
a pint or a pint, for distension of the rectum greatly aids purga- 
tion. A teaspoonful of glycerine injected into the rectum, or 
the same amount given as a suppository, often unlocks the bowels. 
Intestinal antiseptics. — These are supposed to check 
fermentation and putrefaction in the intestines — 



(i) Beta-Naphthol. 

(2) Naphthaline. 

(3) Salicylate of Bismuth. 

(4) Salol. 



(5) Creosote. 

(6) Bichloride of Mercury. 

(7) Oil of Turpentine. 

(8) Nitrate of Silver. 



Beta-naphthol has been shown to destroy micro-organisms in situ. When 
pure, naphthaline is not absorbed, it does not cause toxic symptoms, nor is there 
any change in the urine. Salol, a combination of salicylic and carbolic acids, 
decomposer only in an alkaline solution, and this is useful for action in the small 
intestine. Creosote is valuable if administered in the form of enteric pills, which 
are soluble only in the intestinal fluids. Bichloride of mercury is too poison- 
ous for use, save in exceptional cases. The late Dr. George B. Wood, of 
Philadelphia, achieved brilliant success with oil of turpentine in the treatment 
of typhoid fever. Nitrate of silver has a limited use as au antiseptic, in its lo- 
cal application to dysenteric ulcerations within reach in the rectum and sig- 
moid flexure. The intelligent use of the foregoing drugs has greatly advanced 
the success of the treatment of a large number of cases of enteritis, colitis, diarrhoea, 
dysentery and typhoid fever. 

Intestinal Astringents. — These may be described under 
the following heads. 

Astringents acting on the vessels of the intestine.- — These are 
the same as those acting on vessels generally. Those employed 
for their action on the intestine are — 



(1) Lead salts. 

(2) Dilute solutions of silver salts. 



(3) Alum. 

(4) Dilute sulphuric acid. 



Astringents coagulating albuminous fluids, and thus constricting 
the vessels : 



( 1 ) Tannic acid, and all substances 

containing it, as— 

(2) Krameria root, 

(3) Kino, 

(4) Haematoxylon, 

(5) Cinnamon, 

(6) Catechu, and 



(7) Eucalyptus gum, 

(8) Lead salts, 

(9) Silver salts, 

(10) Zinc salts, 

(11) Bismuth salts, 

(12) Copper salts, and especially 

(13) Per-salts of iron. 



84 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Astringents diminishing the amount of intestinal fluid secreted : 
(i) Opium. I (3) Lead salts. 

(2) Coto. \ (4) Calcium salts. 

The precise action of these is obscure, but it is probable that they operate in the 

way indicated. 

Astringents diminishing the contractions of the muscular coat 
of the intestines : 



(1) Opium. 

(2) Belladonna. 

(3) Hyoscyamus. 

(4) Stramonium. 



(5) Lead salts. 

(6) Lime. 

(7) Bismuth salts. 



Therapeutics. — The first proceeding in every case of diar- 
rhoea is to remove its cause ; if this can be done, it will probably 
subside. Often the cause is some irritating, indigestible food, 
and then it is advisable to give a mild purge, as castor oil, rhu- 
barb, etc., to get rid of it. The majority of cases of ordinary 
diarrhoea are probably due to some slight enteritis, and then any 
one of the astringents that have been named will be valuable, for 
it is desirable to constrict the dilated vessels, and to diminish the 
secretion and the movements. Intestinal astringents are there- 
fore often combined, and when the diarrhoea is at all serious, 
opium is of great service. If there is a persistent cause, as tuber- 
culous ulceration, the hope of doing good is slight. But the 
treatment by drugs is only a small part of the battle ; if the diar- 
rhoea is severe, absolute rest is necessary, food must be very simple 
and given in very small quantities at a time, not much fluid should 
be drunk, and the patient must keep warm. 

E. Drugs acting on the Liver. — The liver has several 
distinct functions, viz. (a) to secrete bile ; (b) to form and store 
up glycogen ; (Y) to form urea ; {d) to excrete substances absorbed 
from the intestine, and (e) to destroy poisonous substances ab- 
sorbed from the intestine. 

1. Drugs influencing the secretion of bile. — It does not follow 
because more bile appears in the faeces that more is secreted, for 
it may be that the gall-bladder and ducts have been thoroughly 
emptied, or that the bile which has been poured into the duodenum 



CHOLAGOGUES. 85 

has been swept along quickly before reabsorption, which is ordi- 
narily brisk, has had time to take place. Drugs which increase 
the amount of bile actually secreted are called direct chola- 
gogues, or hepatic stimulants ; but this is a bad name, as the 
liver has so many distinct functions : those which simply lead to 
a larger amount of bile being found in the faeces without any 
extra secretion are called indirect cholagogues. 

Direct Cholagogues. — These have been studied in fasting 
curarized dogs. A canula is inserted into the bile-duct, and is 
brought out of the body, the drug to be experimented upon is 
administered, and the amount of bile secreted before and after 
the administration is noted. No food must be given during the 
experiment, as that alone causes a considerable increase in the 
biliary flow. 

Direct cho agogues (the most powerful placed first) are — 



(1) Podophyllum. 

(2) Euonymin. 

(3) Iridin. 

(4) Leptandrin. 

(5) Aloes. 

(6) Ipecacuanha. 

(7) Dilute nitric acid. 

(8) Dilute nitro-hydrochloric 

acid. 

(9) Mercuric bichloride. 
(10) Sodium phosphate. 



(11) Sodium salicylate. 

(12) Sodium benzoate. 

(13) Sodium sulphate. 

(14) Colocynth. 

(15) Colchicum. 

(16) Potassium sulphate. 

(17) Ammonium benzoate. 

(18) Rhubarb. 

(19) Jalap. 

(20) Scammony. 

(2r) Dilute arsenious acid. 



There are individual differences among direct cholagogues. Some, as 
sodium salicylate, make the flow very watery; with one (toluylendiamine), 
which is not given to man, the bile secreted is so thick that it flows through the 
duct with the greatest difficulty. 

Indirect Cholagogues. — These cause no increase in the 
amount of bile secreted ; they act by stimulating the upper part 
of the jejunum and the lower part of the duodenum, thus sweeping 
the bile on before there is time for it to be reabsorbed. 

They are — (1) Mercury, (2) most Cathartic purgatives, especially 
Calomel. 

Therapeutics. — Cholagogues are used for cases of dyspepsia 



86 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

in which there is reason to believe that the liver is the organ at 
fault, and certainly they often have a very markedly beneficial 
effect. It is clearly an advantage to combine direct and indirect 
cholagogues in order to ensure that the bile shall be excreted. As 
bile itself is a stimulant to the peristaltic movements of the intes- 
tine all cholagogues are purgatives, and form a distinct class of 
purgatives. In cases of hepatic dyspepsia attention to diet is of 
the greatest importance, and muscular movements, as riding, 
rowing, etc., aid in the expulsion of bile from the gall-bladder 
and ducts. 

Anticholagogues. — These are often called hepatic depres- 
sants. They decrease the quantity of bile secreted. Calomel, 
castor oil, gamboge, magnesium sulphate, opium and acetate of 
lead have this effect, but it is not sufficiently marked to interfere 
with their therapeutic use for other purposes, and they are never 
employed for this action. 

2. Drugs modifying the glycogenic function of the liver. — We 
will here refer to those drugs which cause sugar to appear in the 
urine, and to those drugs which diminish the glycogenic function 
of the liver. 

Drugs causing Sugar to appear in the Urine. — Until 
recently it was assumed that all these drugs acted on the liver, 
probably by increasing the amount of sugar made from the hepatic 
store of glycogen ; but now we have reasons for thinking that 
sometimes the pancreas may be the organ at fault in diabetes, for 
its excision causes sugar to appear in the urine, and other symp- 
toms of diabetes ; also it has been suggested that perhaps some 
perversion of processes going on in muscles may cause diabetes, 
therefore it is rash to assume that all drugs causing sugar to appear 
in the urine (glycosuria) must act on the liver. What little can 
be stated as to the mode of action of these drugs will be given 
when each individual drug is considered. 

The drugs stated to cause glycosuria have already been mentioned. 

Excepting phloridizin and phloretin, all these substances must, in most 
cases, be given in poisonous doses to produce glycosuria Glycuronic acid, 
which gives the same reduction with Fehling's solution as sugar, but differs 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE LIVER. 87 

from it in not giving the fermentation test, appears in the urine after the admin- 
istration of chloroform, chloral, camphor, morphia, and curare, and it is quite 
possible that experimenters have forgotten this fact when they have stated that 
certain drugs produce glycosuria. Salicyluric acid, which occurs in the urine 
after taking salicylic acid, reduces Fehling's solution. Leucin and uric acid do 
the same to a very slight extent. Drugs are never employed with the object of 
producing glycosuria. 

Depressants of the Glycogenic Function. — Phosphorus, arse- 
nic, and antimony diminish and even stop the formation of glycogen by the 
liver; they also cause fatty degeneration of it. In certain forms of diabetes, 
opium, morphine, and codeine have a most marked effect in diminishing the 
quantity of sugar in the urine. 

3. Drugs modifying the formation of urea by the liver. — It is 
believed that some of the nitrogenous substances, especially 
leucin, arriving at the liver, are there converted into urea. The 
quantity of urea excreted by the urine is increased by phosphorus, 
arsenic, antimony, ammonium, chloride, and iron. Phosphorus 
may also lead to the appearance in the urine of leucin and tyro- 
sin. There is some evidence that this drug causes an increase of 
the urea through its action on the liver, for in phosphorus poison- 
ing that organ undergoes extreme fatty degeneration, and jaun- 
dice supervenes. Whether the other drugs act through the liver 
is doubtful. Antimony and arsenic, if given in large doses for 
some time, both produce general fatty degeneration. All these 
substances must be administered in almost poisonous doses in 
order to increase the urea in the urine, and they are not employed 
therapeutically for this purpose. 

Opium, colchicum, alcohol, and quinine are said to decrease 
the quantity of urea excreted. 

Division X. — Drugs acting on the Nervous and Muscular 

Systems. 

A. Drugs acting on the Muscles. — Pharmacologists have 
devoted much attention to this class of drugs, but as the facts 
ascertained are not used in medicine, we need not stop to con- 
sider them. Lauder Brunton gives the following classification, 
founded on that of Koberts : 



88 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Class I. Irritability of muscle unaffected ; total amount of work it can do 
diminished. — The following produce this effect- Apomorphine, delphine, saponine, 
copper, zinc, and cadmium. And in large doses antimony, arsenic, platinum, iron. 

Class II. Both the irritability and the capacity for work diminished. — 
The following produce this effect : Potassium, lithium, ammonium, quinine, al- 
cohol, chloral, chloroform. 

Class III. Diminish the capacity for work, and make the excitability very 
irregular. — Lead, emetine, and cocaine. 

Class IV. Alter the form of the muscle curve. — Veratrine, salts of barium, 
strontium, and calcium, digitalis, and squill. 

Class V. Increases the excitability. — Physostigmine. 

Class VI. Increase the capacity for work. — Caffeine and Theobromine. 

Small doses of strychnine and veratrine shorten the latent period ; large 
doses lengthen it. 

Dilute alkalies diminish the extensibility ; dilute acids increase it. 

B. Drugs acting on the Peripheral Endings of Motor 
Nerves. — Of the drugs belonging to this group the action of 
curare has been worked out most fully. If curare is given to an ani- 
mal it is found that the muscles will respond to a mechanical stim- 
ulus, although they will not contract when the motor nerve is 
stimulated. If a single muscle be removed from the circulation 
by ligature of its vessels before the administration of curare after- 
wards it will be the only one that will respond to stimulation of 
its motor nerve. As this was the only muscle of the body that 
the drug could not reach, and it is the only one not poisoned, 
the poison clearly acts locally on the muscles ; but as the curarized 
muscle will respond to mechanical stimulation curare must par- 
alyze the motor nerves within the muscle, probably the end plates. 

Drugs paralyzing the termination of the motor nerves in muscle : 



( 1 ) Curare, 

(2) Conium, 

(3) Belladonna (atropine), 

(4) Stramonium, 

(5) Hyoscyamus, 

(6) Saponine, 

(7) Sparteine, 

(8) Amyl nitrite, 

(9) Dilute hydrocyanic acid. 

(10) Cocaine, 

(11) Camphor, 



(12) Lobeline, 

(13) Nicotine, 

(14) Methyl brucine, 

(15) Methyl cinchonine, 

(16) Methyl codeine, 

(17) Methyl morphine, 

(18) Methyl quinine, 

(19) Methyl nicotine, 

(20) Methyl strychnine, 

and many others. 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE MOTOR NERVES. 89 

Curare and conium are by far the most important. Therapeutically we 
never desire to paralyze motor nerve endings. 

Drugs stimulating the terminations of motor nerves in muscle ; 



(1) Aconite. 

(2) Nicotine. 

(3) Pilocarpine. 



(4) Pyridine. 

(5) Strychnine (slightly), 



Excepting that perhaps some of the beneficial action of strychnine in cer- 
tain cases may be due to its slight action on motor nerves, we do not employ 
these drugs for this action. 

C. Drugs acting on the Peripheral Endings of Sen- 
sory Nerves (other than those of special sense). — Our know- 
ledge of these is derived almost entirely from observations on man, 
for it is very difficult to experiment upon animals, as they have 
such imperfect means of communicating their sensations to us. 

Drugs which stimulate the terminations of sensory nerves. — 
These, when applied locally, cause pain. They are the same as 
the local vascular irritants which have already been enumerated 
(p. 50) ; in fact, most of them give rise to pain by causing local 
inflammation. There is no need to repeat the list. 

Therapeutics. — Local irritants are chiefly employed for 
their action on the vessels, but as they are also counter-irritants, 
their application to the skin, while causing some pain there, will 
often relieve a deep-seated pain. Although pain is always referred 
to the periphery, it is appreciated centrally, and therefore peri- 
pheral stimulation of nerves, which also reflexly excites the heart 
and respiration, is used to rouse people from unconsciousness, 
such as that of fainting, opium poisoning, etc. For these pur- 
poses the stimulus must be prompt, hence the application of the 
faradic current to the skin is a good means to employ. 

Drugs which depress the terminations of sensory nerves. — Of 
these there are two kinds: those which only relieve pain, or 
local anodynes ; and those which diminish sensibility, or local 
anaesthetics. 

Local Anodynes. — These have no action unless pain be present. They 
are — 



90 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



(i) Aconite. 

(2) Carbolic acid. 

(3; Menthol. 

(4) Dilute hydrocyanic acid. 

(5) Bicarbonate of sodium. 

(6) Ether. -\ These must be 

(7) Alcohol. I allowed to eva- 

(8) Chloroform. J por ate. 



(9) Chloral. 

(10) Belladonna. 

(11) Stramonium. 

(12) Hyoscyamus. 

(13) Opium. 

(14) Veratrine. 

(15) Oxide of zinc. 



In the above list the most powerful are placed first. Many other substances 
are said to be local anodynes, but their claim to the title is doubtful. Cold is a 
powerful depressant of sensibility, and therefore it is an excellent local anodyne ; 
so also is warmth, for heat dilates the vessels, and thus relieves tension, which 
is a very powerful factor in causing pain. 

Therapeutics. — It is clear that the scope for the employ- 
ment of local anodynes is very wide. If possible, the first thing 
is to remove the cause of the pain, but often, as in neuralgia and 
many forms of pruritus, we cannot do this. 

Local Anaesthetics. — These are cocaine, carbolic acid, and extreme 
cold, whether produced by ice or the ether spray. This spray was formerly 
employed to produce local anaesthesia before doing small operations ; but it has 
been superseded by cocaine, which produces a high degree of local insensibility. 

D. Drugs acting on the Trunks of Nerves. — These are 
of greater pathological than pharmacological interest. If taken 
for a long time they produce chronic inflammation of the 
nerves, which is shown by the great increase of the fibrous tissue 
between the nerve-fibres and the fatty degeneration of the fibres 
themselves. During the earlier stages the irritation of the nerves 
causes much pain and tingling ; later, as they lose their function, 
numbness with loss of sensation, and paralysis set in, often accom- 
panied by trophic lesions. For fuller details books on medicine 
must be consulted. 

The drugs producing peripheral neuritis are — 

(1) Lead. (3) Arsenic. 

(2) Mercury. (4) Alcohol. 

E. Drugs acting on the Spinal Cord. — The difficulties 
of experiment are so great that we know nothing of the action of 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE SPINAL CORD. 91 

drugs on the sensory portions of the cord. We are also ignorant 
of the action of drugs on the motor fibres. The following method 
is adopted to discover whether a drug acts on the cells of the an- 
terior cornua. Suppose we are studying a drug which stimulates 
the motor cells. After the drug has been given, a slight peri- 
pheral stimulus will produce such marked reflex action that 
convulsions will ensue upon the stimulation. If the cord is cut 
across and the convulsions follow the stimulus as before, it is 
clear that these cannot be of cerebral origin, for in that case they 
would not take place below the point of section. Again, if be- 
fore injection of the drug into the circulation, the vessels of the 
cord are ligatured, and then the drug causes no convulsion, it is 
clear that it acts on the cord and not on the muscles or nerves. 
These results are confirmed, if, when the drug is injected into 
vessels by which it reaches the cord quickly, convulsions occur 
sooner than when it is thrown into other vessels ; also if convul- 
sions do not take place when the cord is destroyed ; and lastly if, 
when the destruction is gradually caused by pushing a wire down 
the vertebral canal, the convulsions cease from above downwards 
as the cord is destroyed. 

The drugs increasing the irritability of the anterior cornua are — 



(1) Strychnine. 

(2) Brucine. 

(3) Ammonia. 

(4) Thebaine. 



(5) Chloroform. 

(6) Ether. 

(7) Ergot. 

(8) Opium. 



(The last four only slightly, and early in their action). 

Therapeutics. — It is very rarely that we can do any good 
in spinal diseases by attempting to stimulate the anterior cornua, 
but strychnine is occasionally given for cases of paralysis due to 
diseases of the spinal cord. 

Drugs which depress the activity of the anterior cornua : 



(1) Physostigmine. 


(6) Ergot. 


(2) Bromides. 


(7) Opium. 


(3) Alcohol. 


(8) Mercury. 


(4) Chloroform. 


(9) Zinc salts. 


(5) Ether. 


(10) Silver salts 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



(11) Sodium salts. 

(12) Potassium salts. 

(13) Lithium salts. 

(14) Antimony salts. 

(15) Arsenical salts. 

(16) Camphor. 

(17) Nitrite of amyl. 

(18) Nitrite of sodium. 



(19) Chloral. 

(20) Carbolic acid. 

(21) Apomorphine. 

(22) Veratrine. 

(23) Turpentine. 

(24) Saponine. 

(25) Emetine. 

(26) Gelsemium. 



Of these, apomorphine, alcohol, chloroform, ether, arsenic, camphor, mor- 
phine, carbolic acid, chloral, nicotine, and veratrine first excite slightly before 
depressing. 

Therapeutics. — These drugs are of very little use in medi- 
cine for their action on the spinal cord. Physostigmine is by far 
the most powerful, and has been occasionally used in obscure 
nerve diseases accompanied by convulsions, as tetanus. 

Ergot has a very peculiar action in producing sclerosis 
of the posterior columns of the cord. Lead sometimes causes 
atrophy of the anterior cornual cells, and long-continued abuse 
of alcohol probably causes slight degeneration of the cord as a 
whole. 

F. Drugs acting on the Brain. — The action of these 
cannot be localized nearly so accurately as can that of drugs acting 
on the spinal cord and nerves. Drugs acting on the brain illus- 
trate two very important general laws. 

First, the law of dissolution, which, when stated as it 
applies in pharmacology, is as follows. When a drug affects 
functions progressively, those first affected are the highest in de- 
velopment; that is to say, they are the last acquired by the indi- 
vidual and the last to appear in the species. The next affected 
are those next to highest, and so on ; till finally the lowest of all 
from an evolutionary point of view, that is to say, the functions 
of respiration and circulation, are affected. This law is very well 
exemplified in the case of alcohol, for the first functions to be 
disordered are those of the intellect, especially the highest, 
such as judgment and reason ; then follow disorders of move- 
ment, and finally death from failure of respiration and circula- 
tion. 



CEREBRAL STIMULANTS. 93 

Another law very well exemplified by drugs which act on 
the brain is that when a drug in moderate doses excites a function, 
in large doses it often paralyzes it. For example, a person under 
the influence of chloroform, soon after its administration, tosses 
his arms about in a disorderly way, but they subsequently become 
motionless, and cerebral stimulants may also be hypnotics. 

Drugs acting on the motor centres of the brain. — To investigate 
these, the motor area of the cortex is exposed by trephining, and 
the strength of current which it is necessary to apply to the motor 
area to produce corresponding movements, is noted before and 
after the administration of the drug. Another method is to 
observe the strength of current necessary to evoke a movement, 
then to allow the trephine wound to close, afterwards the animal 
is made to take the drug regularly for some weeks. The opposite 
motor area is then exposed, and the strength of current required 
to call forth movements is noted. 



It has been found that— 

(1) Alcohol, 

(2) Anaesthetics, 

(3) Chloral, 



(4) Bromide of potassium, 

(5) Bromide of sodium, 

(6) Bromide of ammonium, 



diminish the activity of the cells of the motor area. 

Bromides are largely used in epilepsy and other convulsive dis 
orders on account of this function. 

Drugs exciting the motor cells of the cortex are — 



(1) Atropine. 

(2) Absinthe. 



(3) Strychnine. 

(4) Physostigmine. 



They have no therapeutical application in virtue of this property. 

General cerebral stimulants. — It is impossible to know any- 
thing of these by experiments on animals. In man they cause 
general excitation of the mental faculties, followed in many cases 
by delirium and incoherence. The exact form of delirium differs 
a little in each case. 



94 



PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 



Such drugs are — 


(i) 


Belladonna. 


(2) 


Stramonium. 


(3) Hyoscyamus. 


(4) 


Alcohol. 


(5) 


Chloroform. 


(6) 


Ether. 


(7) 


Nitrous oxide 


(8) 


Coffee. 


(9) 


Tea. 


(10) 


Guarana. 



(11) Coca. 

(12) Cannabis Indica. 

(13) Lupulus. 

(14) Opium. 

(15) Camphor. 

(1 6) Santonin. 

(17) Quinine. 

(18) Salicylic acid. 

(19) Tobacco. 



Therapeutics. — Many of these are taken habitually as cere- 
bral stimulants; for example, alcohol, tea, coffee, tobacco, in 
England; opium in the East; cannabis indica in many parts of 
Asia; coca in parts of South America; and if it is wished to give 
a cerebral stimulant as a drug, one of these is usually chosen. The 
rest, which are very important, are commonly employed for some 
other action. With very many of this class of drugs, as will be 
seen directly, the stimulant action soon gives way to a paralyzing 
influence. 

General cerebral depressants. — These are commonly divided 
into three classes: Hypnotics or Soporifics, Narcotics, Anaes- 
thetics. 

Hypnotics or Soporifics are drugs which produce sleep, 
closely resembling, if not identical with, natural sleep. The 
brain during sleep is anaemic, and it is thought that this anaemia 
is the cause of sleep ; possibly some soporifics act by producing 
cerebral anaemia. 



The hypnotics are — 




(1) Opium. 


(9) Sulphonal. 


(2) Morphine. 


(10) Chloralamide 


(3) Chloral. 


(11) Somnal. 


(4) Butyl chloral hydrate. 


(12) Urethane. 


(5) Bromides. 


(13) Lupulus. 


(6) Hyoscyamus. 


(14) Alcohol. 


(7) Cannabis Indica. 


(15) Lactuca. 


(8) Paraldehyde. 


(16) Piscidia. 



ANESTHETICS. 



95 



Therapeutics. — These drugs are often used for persons suf- 
fering from sleeplessness, but it is far more important to remove 
the cause of the sleeplessness. Sleep is often promoted by dilating 
the vessels of other parts of the body than the brain ; for exam- 
ple, a warm bath or an abundant meal conduces to sleep. The 
use of hypnotics is greatly abused. Those who take them become 
habituated to them, so that at last even large doses do not cause 
sleep. Chloral, the bromides, and chloralamide are perhaps the 
most satisfactory. 

Narcotics are substances which not only produce sleep, but 
also in large doses depress the functions of respiration and circu- 
lation. Many of them fall also under the head of general anaes- 
thetics; others are, in smaller doses, hypnotics. 

The following is a list of them : 



(i) General Anaesthetics. 




(6) Hyoscyamus. 


(2) Opium. 




(7) Alcohol. 


(3) Chloral. 




(8) Cannabis Indica 


(4) Belladonna. 




(9) Lupulus. 


(5) Stramonium. 






All must be given in considerable 


dose* 





Therapeutics. — They are of great use in calming excite- 
ment of any kind ; many of them, such as, for example, opium 
and belladonna, are beneficial in relieving distress and producing 
sleep in heart disease. 

General Anesthetics. — These are drugs that lead to a 
total loss of consciousness, so that pain is no longer felt; at the 
same time reflex action is abolished. They illustrate admirably 
the law of dissolution, and also the fact that, after excitement, 
paralysis often succeeds ; and the stages consequent upon these 
laws can be readily observed in anyone who is taking an anaesthe- 
tic. Firstly, in obedience to the law of dissolution the highest 
faculty, the imagination, becomes excited, the patient sees visions 
and hears noises. He next begins to chatter wildly and inco- 
herently, for in the excitement of any function by a drug the 
exaltation is usually irregular, and confusion results. Next, the 
other motor centres of the cortex are stimulated irregularly, so 



g6 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

that he gesticulates, throws his arms about wildly, and tosses his 
body. By this time the brief stimulation of the higher intellec- 
tual faculties has probably ceased, and, in obedience to the second 
law, vision, hearing, and touch are dulled, and he has lost con- 
trol over his reason, so that he feels light-headed, as he expresses 
it, crying and laughing easily; now he is totally irresponsible for 
his actions and careless as to their results. It will be noticed 
that the functions are paralyzed in the order stated in the law of 
dissolution. Next there follows upon the stimulation of the mo- 
tor areas, stimulation of the heart and respiration. The pulse and 
respiration both increase in number, the blood-pressure rises, the 
face flushes. Then comes depression of all the functions previ- 
ously excited ; first the higher parts of the cerebrum give way, 
and the patient loses consciousness — neither bright lights, sounds, 
nor painful impressions arouse him ; he becomes quiet, and ceases 
to throw his arms and legs about; the reflexes disappear, and con- 
sequently touching the conjunctiva does not produce closing of 
the eyelid ; the feet do not move when they are tickled, the pupil 
is contracted, and the previous quickening of the pulse and res- 
piration is succeeded by a slowing of their rate. It is at this pe- 
riod that the patient cannot feel pain, and that therefore opera- 
tions are performed. The depression of the motor centres is 
followed by the depression of the muscular tone, and the muscles 
become quite flaccid and cease to respond to mechanical stimula- 
tion. This is the degree of narcosis that is required for the easy 
reduction of dislocations and for the easy manual examination of 
the abdominal viscera. Anaesthetics should not be pushed be- 
yond this stage. If they are, even the involuntary muscles lose 
their tone and reflex excitability, so that the sphincters of the rec- 
tum and the bladder relax. The depression of the pulse and res- 
piration continues, the movements of the chest become weaker 
and weaker and slower and slower, the pulse becomes very feeble, 
slow, and irregular, and the heart finally stops in diastole. Death 
occurs partly by the heart and partly by the respiration. At any 
period of the administration during which recovery is possible, 
the functions of the body will return in just the reverse order to 



ANESTHETICS. 97 

that in which they were lost, thus again illustrating the law of 
dissolution. It is often many hours before the mental faculties 
have recovered their equilibrium, and long after the patient can 
move his muscles, he cannot co-ordinate them. There are indivi- 
dual differences in the different anaesthetics and in different 
persons. 

The general anaesthetics are — 



(1) Chloroform. 

(2) Ether. 

(3) Nitrous oxide. 

(4) Bichloride of methylene. 

(5) Pental. 



(6) Chlorinated Chloride of 

Ethyl. 

(7) Many other substitution pro- 

ducts derived from alcohols 
and ethers. 



Therapeutics. — Anaesthetics are given to cause unconscious- 
ness, so that pain may not be experienced during operations, to 
relax muscles in cases of dislocations, abdominal examinations, 
phantom tumors, &c, to relieve severe pain, such as that of 
parturition, biliary and renal colic, to quiet the body during con- 
vulsions, as in tetanus and hydrophobia. 

The chief dangers of ancesthetics are — i . Death from shock. 
This usually takes place before the patient is fully under the influ- 
ence of the anaesthetic, reflex action is not yet quite abolished, 
and the heart is stopped reflexly from the peripheral stimulus of 
the operation. This is one of the greatest and most common 
dangers of anaesthetics, especially of chloroform. It is, to a large 
extent, avoidable if care be taken that the patient is fully under 
the influence of the anaesthetic before the operation is begun; 
often, when it is trivial, the operator is in too great a hurry to 
begin, and the patient suddenly dies from failure of the heart. 

2. Death from paralysis of respiration. This is usually due 
to a combination of circumstances. Too much of the anaesthetic 
may have been given, respiration may be difficult because the 
patient suffers from some disease of the lungs, or the operation 
may demand that he should lie on his side or in some other posi- 
tion which hampers respiration. It is not a very great danger, 
for it is heralded by lividity ; and if then the posture is changed, 
the administration of the anaesthetic is stopped, and artificial 

9 



98 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

respiration is performed, the patient usually quickly recovers ; 
even if he does not, artificial respiration, with the head thrown 
back and the tongue pulled out, should be carried on as long as 
there is any evidence that the heart is beating, or if the patient 
draws a breath when artificial respiration is stopped for half a 
minute. Cases have recovered although it has been necessary to 
keep up artificial respiration for hours. 

3. Cardiac failure may occur if the vapor is too concentrated. 
The patient almost suddenly becomes pale, and the pulse stops. 
In such a case no more anaesthetic should be given, artificial respi- 
ration must be kept up in the manner just mentioned, the patient 
inverted so that the head is lowest, and the heart may be stimu- 
lated by the subcutaneous injection of brandy, by the inhalation 
of nitrite of amyl, by the application of the faradic current over 
the cardiac region, by the plunging of electric needles into the 
heart, or by flicking the chest over the heart with hot towels and 
placing hot compresses over it. 

4. Vomited matter and, if the operation is about the mouth, 
blood may suffocate the patient. To avoid the first contingency 
no food should be taken for some time before the operation, and 
if the patient is sick he should be turned on his side \ to avoid 
the latter special precautions must be taken, which are described 
in books on operative surgery. 

For the relative advantages of the different anaesthetics and 
the mode of giving each, the account of the different individual 
drugs must be consulted. 

G. Drugs acting on the Eye. 

1. Drugs Acting on the Pupil. — The first thing to deter- 
mine is whether any drug which dilates or contracts the pupil acts 
locally or centrally. It is dropped into one eye : if it only acts 
feebly and after some time on both eyes, it follows that it has 
acted centrally after absorption from the conjunctiva into the gen- 
eral circulation ; but if it acts quickly, powerfully, and only on 
the eye into which it was dropped, its action is local. If it acts 
on an excised eye its action must be local. If, when all the 
vessels going to the eye are ligatured, the drug will act when 



DRUGS ACTING ON THE PUPIL. 99 

dropped into the eye, but will not when thrown into the general 
circulation, this again shows that its action is local, and that when 
it acts after being thrown into the circulation when no vessels are 
ligatured it does so because it is circulating locally through the 
eye. If all the arteries and veins of the eye are ligatured," and 
the drug will not act when locally applied, although it would be- 
fore, and will now when thrown into general circulation, it shows 
that its action is central, and that it acts when dropped into the 
eye because some of it is absorbed. If it has been proved by 
these means to act centrally the further investigation is difficult, 
for the central mechanism is complex. 

If it has been proved to act locally, it may act either on the 
muscular fibres of the iris, on the terminations of the third nerve 
in them, or on the terminations of the cervical sympathetic in 
them. Stimulation of the third nerve causes the pupil to contract; 
section of it causes the pupil to dilate. Stimulation of the sym- 
pathetic causes the pupil to dilate; section of it causes the pupil 
to contract. If the pupil is dilated by the local action of a drug, 
and stimulation of the third nerve will not cause it to contract, 
but yet the muscle is responsive to mechanical stimulation, it 
shows that the endings of the third nerve are paralyzed. If the 
pupil is contracted by the drug, and although responsive to 
mechanical stimulation, will not dilate when the third nerve is 
cut, it shows that the ends of the third nerve are stimulated. If 
a drug locally dilates the pupil, but not as powerfully as stimulation 
of the sympathetic, it is clear that its whole effect is not due to a 
stimulation of the sympathetic ; and if the muscle remains locally 
irritable, the third nerve ending must be paralyzed. A series of 
similar experiments may be made with regard to the sympathetic. 
By these means the mode of action of many drugs has been made 
out, but often they act both on the sympathetic and the third nerve. 
In the following list they will be classified under their main actions. 

Mydriatics {pupil dilators) — 

A. Paralyze the terminations of the third nerve. 



(1) Atropine. 

(2) Homatropine. 

(3) Daturine. 



(4) Hyoscyamine. 

(5) Gelsemine (probably), 

(6) Muscarine (probably). 



IOO PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

B. Stimulate the terminations of the sympathetic. — Cocaine. 

C. Act centrally. — Anaesthetics (late in their action). 

Myotics {contract the pupil). 

A. Stimulate the terminations of the third nerve. — Physostigmine, pilo- 
carpine, nicotine (probably). 

B. Act centrally. — Anaesthetics (early in their action), opium. 

Therapeutics.— Dilators of the pupils, especially atropine 
and homatropine, are used to dilate the pupil for ophthalmoscopic 
examination, and to prevent or break down adhesions of the iris. 
Contractors of the pupil, especially physostigmine, are used to 
overcome the effects of atropine, and to prevent too much light 
entering the eye in painful diseases of it. 

2 Drugs acting on the Ciliary Muscle. — The following 
drugs impair or paralyze accommodation : 



(i) Atropine. 

(2) Daturine. 

(3) Hyoscyamine. 

(4) Homatropine. 



(5) Cocaine. 

(6) Physostigmine. 

(7) Pilocarpine. 

(8) Gelsemine. 



Intra-ocular tension is increased by atropine (large doses), hyos- 
cyamine, daturine. It is decreased by cocaine and physostigmine. 

Gelsemine paralyzes the external ocular muscles, especially the 
levator palpebral and the external rectus, by its action on the 
terminal nerve filaments. 

The capacity for seeing blue is increased by strychnine. Santo- 
nin causes first violet, then yellow vision. 

H. Drugs acting on the Ears. — We know very little about 
the action of drugs on these. Quinine and salicylic acid cause 
noises and buzzing. 

J. Drugs acting on Sympathetic System. — Much of 
this subject has already been discussed when speaking of the action 
of drugs on vessels. The curious fact has been made out that if 
an animal be treated with a large dose of nicotine, or if this be 
applied locally to the superior cervical ganglion, stimulation of the 
nerve below the ganglion no longer produces its characteristic 
effects, although stimulation above the ganglion does. 



DRUGS ACTING ON ORGANS OF GENERATION. IOI 

Division XL — Drugs acting on the Organs of Generation. 

A. Aphrodisiacs. — These are substances which increase 
sexual desire. There are conceivably many ways in which this 
might take place. There is a centre in the lumbar spinal cord, 
irritation of which causes erection, and this is capable of being 
excited by afferent impulses proceeding from many parts of the 
body, but especially from the cerebrum, and the genital organs 
themselves, or the parts in their immediate neighborhood. The 
lumbar centre appears to be very dependent upon the general 
health, and therefore substances which improve this are indirectly 
aphrodisiacs. 

The following drugs are known as aphrodisiacs ; their mode of action is 
not certainly known. 



(i) Strychnine. 

(2) Cantharides. 

(3) Alcohol. 

(4) Cannabis Indica. 



(5) Camphor. 

(6) Phosphorus. 

(7) Damiana. 



B. Anaphrodisiacs. — We do not know for certain of any 
drugs which have a depressant effect upon the lumbar centre. 
Most anaphrodisiacs act by decreasing or removing some irrita- 
tion which is reflexly producing an aphrodisiac effect, but some 
probably act centrally. 

Drugs used as anaphrodisiacs are — 



(1) Bromides. 


(5) Hyoscyamus 


(2) Iodide of potassium. 


(6) Stramonium. 


(3) Opium. 


(7) Digitalis. 


(4) Belladonna. 


(8) Purgatives. 



C. Ecbolics or Oxytocics are remedies which during or 
immediately after parturition increase uterine action. 
They are — 
(1) Ergot. (4) Hydrastis. 



(2) Quinine. 

(3) Savin. 



(5) Rue. 

(6) Powerful purgatives. 



Of these ergot is by far the most important. Occasionally some of these 
drugs will act upon the gravid uterus to produce abortion before parturition has 
begun. They have all of them been used criminally for this purpose. 



102 PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS. 

D. Emmenagogues are substances used to increase the 
menstrual flow. Diminution of the menstrual flow is a symptom 
of so many diseases that a large number of drugs which remedy 
these are indirect emmenagogues, but the substances which seem 
to have a special action in increasing the menstrual flow are — 



(i) All Ecbolics. 

(2) Asafcetida. 

(3) Myrrh. 



(4) Guaiacum. 

(5) Cantharides. 

(6) Borax. 



Among the many indirect emmenagogues the commoner are purgatives, 
iron, manganese, cod-liver oil, and strychnine, which act by improving the gen- 
eral health. Hot foot or hip baths, especially if mustard be added, often aid 
the onset of menstruation. 

E. Substances which depress Uterine Action. — 

These are employed to restrain the actions of the gravid uterus. 
They are — 



(1) Bromides. 

(2) Opium. 

(3) Chloral. 

(4) Viburnum. 



(5) Cannabis Indica. 

(6) Chloroform. 

(7) Tartrate of antimony and 

potassium. 



F. Drugs acting on the Secretion of Milk. 

Galactogogues, or drugs which increase the secretion of milk. 

Jaborandi, Leaves of Ricinus Communis, and Alcohol. — Of these 
jaborandi is the most powerful, but its effects soon pass off. The leaves of the 
castor-oil plant are used, applied as a poultice, and a decoction of fluid extract of 
them, given internally at the same time. Alcohol is very feeble. The secre- 
tion is so much under the control of the general health that the best way to 
ensure an abundant secretion is to keep the general health as good as possible. 

Antzgalactogogues, or drugs which decrease the secretion of 
milk. 

Belladonna, either given internally or applied locally, is very efficient, 
probably acting locally on the mammary gland as on the sweat glands. 

The following drugs, if given are excreted by the milk, and are therefore 
taken in by the child : — Oil of anise, oil of dill, garlic, oil of turpentine, oil of 
copaiba, and probably all volatile oils, sulphur, rhubarb, senna, jalap, scam- 
mony, castor oil, opium, iodine, indigo, antimony, arsenic, bismuth, iron, lead, 
mercury, zinc, iodide of potassium. It is clear that these must be administered 
with care to the mother ; for example, copaiba or turpentine will make the 



DRUGS ACTING ON METABOLISM. 1 03 

milk so nasty that the child will not take it. The above purgatives given to the 
mother may cause diarrhoea in the child, Opium should not be given in large 
doses to the mother. On the other hand, mercury, arsenic, and iodide of po- 
tassium may be administered to the child by being given to her. 

Division XII. — Drugs acting on Metabolism. 

Our knowledge of the normal metabolism of the body is very 
imperfect, consequently we know very little more than has already 
been stated under other divisions, about the action of drugs 
on metabolism. • Any further remarks which are necessary will 
be made when the individual drugs are considered. Two words 
in common use are alterative and tonic. 

Alterative is a vague term of which no definition can be given. It is 
often used to cloak our ignorance, when we have no exact knowledge of the 
action of a drug. Many drugs comprehended under this term have the pro- 
perty of profoundly altering the body, especially if it be diseased ; for example, 
mercury will, if the patient be suffering from syphilis, generally cause the ab- 
sorption of syphilitic exudations, but we do not know how this takes place. 
All that can be said about such drugs will be stated under each, for their mode 
of action is probably so different, that no useful purpose would be served by 
considering them together. 

Tonic. — This is a term even more vague than alterative. So ill-defined 
is it, that it is advisable never to use it if it can be avoided. As commonly 
employed, it means a drug which makes the patient feel in more robust health 
than he did before he took it. Obviously this may happen in many ways, such 
as, for instance, by improving the digestion or the quality of the blood. 



PHARMACOPGEIAL MATERIA MEDICA. 

(For Non-pharmacopceial, see Appendix I. and II.) 



Part I.— INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA, 



GROUP I. 

WATER. 

1. AQUA, Water, H 2 0. — Natural water, the purest that can be obtained, 
cleared if necessary by filtration ; free from odor, taste, or visible impurity. 

2. AQUA DESTILLATA.— Distilled water (H 2 0). Take iooo parts 
of water, distil from a copper still connected with a block tin or glass worm, 
reject the first 50 parts, which contain volatile impurities, and preserve the next 
800 in glass stoppered bottles. 

Tests. — Evaporated in a clean glass capsule it leaves no fixed residue. It 
is not affected by hydrosulphuric acid or sulphide of ammonia ( absence of me- 
tals), oxalate of ammonium (calcium), nitrate of silver (chloride), chloride of 
barium (sulphate), or mercuric chloride with or without the addition of carbonate 
of potassium (ammonium salts or free ammonia) in heating and acidulating with 
diluted sulphuric acid and adding a one-tenth of one per cent, solution of per- 
manganate of potash, the tint produced is not entirely destroyed by boiling five 
minutes or on setting aside covered for ten hours (absence of organic and oxi- 
dizable matter). Aqua destillata is always to be used for making up prescriptions. 

Action.* 

External. — An indifferent bath (88°— 98 F.), or one in 
which the bather feels neither hot nor cold, produces no particu- 
lar effect. 

Cold baths increase the production of heat, and abstract heat 
from the body if they are prolonged ; therefore at first the bodily 
temperature may rise slightly, but when the loss exceeds the pro- 

* Unless otherwise stated, the word action will in this book always be 
taken to mean physiological action, or action in health. 
104 



WATER. 



°5 



duction it falls. The amount of carbonic acid expired is in- 
creased. The rate of the pulse and respiration at first rises, but 
they soon fall. The skin becomes pale, and the condition of goose- 
skin is seen. After the bath (the duration and temperature suitable 
for different persons varies widely) there is a feeling of warmth 
and exhilaration, and the cutaneous vessels dilate, (reaction). 

A warm bath if sufficiently prolonged may cause a slight rise 
of the bodily temperature, the skin becomes red, the pulse and 
respirations are more frequent, the amount of urine secreted is 
diminished, and after the bath there is profuse perspiration. 

Internal. — Warm water gives rise to nausea and vomiting; 
hot water taken in small quantities at frequent intervals may check 
both. Water is quickly absorbed from the stomach, and very 
soon afterwards the amount of urine secreted is greatly increased, 
and to a less degree the amount of bile, pancreatic juice, and 
saliva. Large quantities of fluid should not be drunk during 
meal times, as that impairs digestion. If a considerable amount 
of water is drunk daily the amount of urea excreted is increased, 
and that of uric acid is diminished. Water not only washes out 
the tissues, but apparently renders tissue metamorphosis more 
complete. 

Therapeutics. 

External.- — Cold baths are used for the subsequent exhilarat- 
ing effects, which may be increased by quick rubbing with a 
rough towel. Persons in whom a feeling of warmth does not im- 
mediately follow a cold bath should not use it. The constant 
daily use of a cold bath probably diminishes the liability to catch 
cold. Cold baths are said to arrest attacks of laryngismus stridu- 
lus. They have been largely used to reduce the temperature in 
fever, especially typhoid fever. The first effect of putting the 
patient in the cold water is to cause, reflexly from the stimulation 
of the skin by the cold, an increased production of heat ; for 
this reason and because of the cessation of radiation, the rectal 
temperature at first rises a little, but soon, owing to the direct ab- 
straction of heat, and to the diminished production of heat which 
quickly sets in, it falls rapidly, and continues to do so after the 
10 



Io6 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

patient is taken out. The temperature of a bath for a patient 
with typhoid fever should be between 68° and 5 8° F.; he should 
be lowered into it by a sheet, and remain in ten minutes, unless 
before that time he shows signs of collapse, he is then lifted back 
to bed, where a blanket is thrown loosely over him. If this treat- 
ment is adopted the bath ought to be given whenever the axillary 
temperature is 103 F. Sometimes the patient is placed in a 
bath at a temperature of io° F. below his own, and the water is 
cooled by putting in cold water or ice, till it has fallen to about 
68° F., when he is taken out. Often instead of having a bath 
he is sponged with cold water as he lies in bed ; this saves trouble, 
but both sponging and a cold pack (which consists of a sheet 
four folds thick, wrung out in cold water and wrapped round the 
naked body for five or ten minutes) are inferior to a bath. 
Pneumonia is often treated by the application of cold, generally 
by means of ice poultices (pounded ice in a thin, flat, india-rubber 
bag), applied to the chest. The immediate action of very cold 
baths is by far the best treatment for any sudden hyperpyrexia. 

Cold is applied locally either by cold water in Leiter's coils 
or by ice bags, in a number of conditions, with the object of ar- 
resting inflammation. Thus ice bags are put on the head in 
meningitis, or concussion, and on the knee-joint for acute syno- 
vitis, &c. According to most authorities cold contracts not only 
the vessels of the skin to which it is applied, but by reflex action 
those of the organs underneath it. This explains the application 
of an ice bag to the chest to arrest pulmonary haemorrhage. Cold 
locally applied is therefore haemostatic. 

Warm baths, as they liquefy the fatty secretions, are more 
cleansing than cold. Hot baths like any other application of 
heat, soothe pain, hence they are useful for rheumatoid arthritis 
and colic, whether renal, biliary, or intestinal. By bringing 
blood to the skin, and lessening the amount in the internal or- 
gans, they relieve muscular spasm, such as we find in strict- 
ure of the urethra, colic, laryngismus stridulus, other forms of 
laryngeal spasm, and infantile convulsions. In the same way they 
are of service in weariness from muscular or cerebral activity, and 



WATER I07 

are useful in many inflammatory affections, as, for example, a cold 
in the head. A warm bath immediately before going to bed may 
sometimes cure insomnia. The subsequent increased perspi- 
ration makes hot baths and hot packs of great value in the vari- 
ous forms of nephritis and in uraemia. Great care must be taken 
after a hot bath which has been given to induce sweating to see 
that the patient is kept warm by being wrapped quickly in a hot 
blanket and put into a warm bed; if not, the cutaneous vessels 
soon contract, and there is no diaphoresis. A local hot bath has 
the same effects, but to a less degree. A hot foot bath is often 
used for a cold in the head, or for amenorrhoea. Sponging with 
hot water will, by the vascular dilatation and sweating it causes, 
reduce the temperature slightly in fever. 

A cold bath is one the temperature of which is below 70 F., 
one between 88° and 98 F. is properly speaking indifferent, but 
it is often called a warm bath. A tepid bath is intermediate be- 
tween warm and cold. Anything above 9 8° F. is a hot bath. 
Few people can bear a temperature much over 102 F. 

Internal. — The chief therapeutic use of water is to wash out 
the tissues, especially the kidneys, and to keep the urine dilute. 
Some persons who are liable to the formation of gravel or urin- 
ary calculi can, by drinking plenty of pure water, prevent their 
formation, for the minute collections of crystals which are the 
beginning of all calculi, are washed out of the urinary system be- 
fore they have time to grow to any size, and if they are composed 
of uric acid, the copious drinking of water diminishes the liability 
of their formation, for it decreases the amount of uric acid ex- 
creted. The liability to the formation of gall-stones may also be 
kept in check by the drinking of plenty of water, as then the bile 
becomes less concentrated and flows more quickly. When large 
quantities of water are drunk it should be pure distilled water, 
and should be taken between meals. A glass of cold water taken 
on rising in the morning will with some persons cause the bowels 
to be opened. Warm water is an emetic* 

* It is impossible in this book to give more than a brief sketch of baths 
and the drinking of water and mineral waters. Further information will be 
found in works on " General Therapeutics." 



108 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

GROUP II. 

THE ALKALINE METALS. 

Potassium, Sodium, Ammonium, Lithium. 

I. POTASSIUM. 

Symbol K. Combining weight 39, (Not officinal.) 

1. POTASS A. — Caustic Potash. KHO. Synonym. — Potassae hydras. 
Source.— Evaporate liquor potassae and cast the residue in moulds. 
Characters. — Hard, deliquescent, corrosive white pencils. 
Impurities. — The same as of liquor potassae. [See below.) 

2. LIQUOR POTASS^.— Solution of Potash, KHO. 

Source. — An aqueous solution of Carbonate of Potassium is boiled with 
slaked lime. The supernatant liquid is siphoned off. K 2 C0 3 -|- Ca(OH) 2 = 
2KHO + CaC0 3 . 

Characters. — A colorless alkaline fluid with a soapy feel and taste. Sp. 
gr. I.036 ; strength, about 5 per cent, of the hydrate. 

Impurities. — Carbonic acid, lime, sulphates, chlorides and alumina. 

Incompatibles. — Acids, acid salts, metallic salts and preparations of am- 
monia, belladonna, hyoscyamus and stramonium, the alkaloids of these three 
being decomposed by Caustic Potash. All alkaloids are precipitated by alkalies. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m., freely diluted. 

3. POTASSA CUM CALCE.— Potassa with lime. Potassa, 50; lime, 

Characters. — A grayish white powder, deliquescent, having a strongly 
alkaline reaction. 

Action of Potash. 

External. — It is, if concentrated, a powerful irritant and 
caustic, acting by abstracting water from the part to which it is 
applied. It dissolves fatty matters that may be present on the 
surface. It is antacid, and, if freely diluted, sedative. 

Internal. — Mouth. — As alkalies check alkaline secretions, 
potash momentarily checks the secretion of saliva. 

Stomach. — Because alkalies stimulate acid secretions, the flow 
of gastric juice is excited, if alkalies are given before a meal, but 
if at the end of or after a meal the gastric juice already secreted 
is neutralized. Being readily diffusible alkalies are quickly 
absorbed. 



CARBONATE OF POTASSIUM. IO9 

Blood.- — This is rendered more alkaline. Probably all alkalies 
circulate in the blood as carbonates, but their action as alkalizers 
of the blood is very transitory, for they are quickly excreted. 
The amount of haemoglobin, if it is deficient, is said to be in- 
creased. 

Heart. — Large amounts of salts of potassium are depressant 
to all muscular tissues, and therefore decrease the force of the 
heart, ultimately causing diastolic arrest by direct action on the 
cardiac muscle. 

Kidney. — Potassium salts are diuretic, acting directly on the 
renal epithelium. They are quickly excreted in the urine, ren- 
dering it alkaline, and thus increasing its power of holding uric 
acid in solution. 

Respiratory passages. — The bronchial secretion is increased 
in quantity, and it is rendered less viscid. 

Muscle. — The prolonged contraction produced by veratrine, 
or barium salts, is abolished by potassium salts. They are direct 
muscular depressants, and depress also the nervous system, espe- 
cially the brain and spinal cord. 

Therapeutics of Potash. 

External. — Caustic potash is used to destroy lupus, and it 
was formerly employed to make issues. Care must be taken to 
limit its action, for it diffuses very rapidly. Liquor potassae is 
used to dissolve off the fatty matters, and thoroughly cleanse the 
skin before operations, and weaker solutions of it are employed 
to remove the epidermis in certain chronic skin diseases A 40 
per cent, solution is recommended to remove an in-growing toe 
nail, which is painted with the fluid, and in a few seconds is so 
softened that much can be scraped off. The procedure is re- 
peated till the nail that remains is sufficiently thin to be removed 
with a pair of fine scissors. Dilute solutions, acting as sedatives, 
relieve itching. 

Internal. — To obtain the effects of alkalies upon internal 
organs, the bicarbonate, citrate and acetate of potassium are pre- 
ferable to potash, for that is apt to irritate the stomach ; but it 



IIO INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

is occasionally used in small doses as a gastric sedative for dys- 
pepsia. 

Toxicology, see Soda, 

4. POTASSII CARBON AS.— Carbonate of Potassium. K 2 C0 3 with 
16 per cent, of water of crystallization. Synonym. — Salts of tartar. 

Source. — Pearlash, which is a product of the lixiviation of wood ashes, 
is treated with water, which dissolves little but the carbonate of potassium, and 
the solution is evaporated. 

Characters. — A white, caustic, very deliquescent, crystalline powder, 
soluble in its own weight of water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Impurities. — Sulphates, chlorides . 

// is used in pi-eparing — Mistura ferri composita (in which carbonate of 
iron is formed), and Unguentum sulphuris alkalinum. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics of Carbonate of Potassium. 

These are the same as those of potash ; but the carbonate is 
less caustic. 

5. POTASSII BICARBONAS.- Bicarbonate of Potassium. KHCO a . 

Source. — Pass carbonic anhydride through a solution of carbonate of po- 
tassium, and let the bicarbonate crystallize out. K 2 C0 3 -f- C0 2 + H 2 = 
2KHCO3. 

Characters. — Non-corrosive, non-deliquescent, colorless monoclinic 
prisms. Taste mildly alkaline. Solubility. — 1 in 4 of water. 
Impurities. — The carbonate. 
Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Action of Bicarbonate of Potassium. 

The bicarbonate of potassium is too feebly caustic to be of any 
use for this purpose. Otherwise its actions are those of potash. 

Therapeutics of Bicarbonate of Potassium. 

Stomach. — Bicarbonate of potassium may be given before 
meals to stimulate the flow of gastric juice ; and as it is a gastric 
sedative, it is useful in painful dyspepsia accompanied by a 
scanty secretion of gastric juice. It may be taken after meals if 
too much acid is secreted, and the patient suffers from acid eruc- 
tations, especially if pain be present also \ but it is better treat - 
ent to remove the cause of the dyspepsia. It is not a common 



CITRATE OF POTASSIUM. Ill 

remedy for dyspepsia, bicarbonate of sodium being usually pre- 
ferred. It should not be used as an alkali in cases of poisoning 
by mineral acids, because of the evolution of carbonic acid gas. 

Blood. — Bicarbonate of potassium circulates in the blood as 
the carbonate. It was formerly much used in rheumatic fever, 
but is now superseded by salicylates. Probably it did no good. 
In gout it is given to keep the blood thoroughly alkaline, and 
thus to dissolve the uric acid which is in excess in the plasma. 
Many of the mineral waters useful for gout, owe part of their effi- 
cacy to their potassium salts. It is believed to be haematinic, 
that is to say, it is thought to increase the amount of haemoglo- 
bin ; but as for this purpose it is usually given with iron, its hae- 
matinic power has not yet been proved. 

Kidneys. — It is not much used for its diuretic effect and its 
alkalizing power over the urine, as the vegetable salts are prefer- 
able. 

6. POTASSII ACETAS.— Acetate of Potassium. KC 2 H 3 2 . 
Source. — Add acetic acid in excess to carbonate of potassium. Evaporate 

to dryness and fuse the residue. K 2 C0 3 -f- 2HC 2 H 3 2 — 2KC 2 H 3 2 + H 2 

+ co 2 . 

Characters. — White, foliaceous, very deliquescent, satiny, neutral masses 
of peculiar odor. Solubility. — 2^ in I in water. 

Impurities. — The carbonate and metallic impurities. 
Dose, 5 to 6o gr. 

7. POTASSII CITRAS.— Citrate of Potassium. K 3 C 6 H 5 7 . 
Source. — Neutralize carbonate of potassium with a solution of citric acid, 

and evaporate to dryness. 3K 2 C0 3 -f- 2H 3 C 6 H 5 7 = 2K 3 C 6 H 5 7 -f- 3H 2 + 
3 C0 2 . 

Characters. — A white, granular, deliquescent powder. Taste, saline, 
feebly acid. Solubility . — 10 in 6 of water. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparations 

1. Liquor Potassii Citratis. — Citric acid, 6; Bicarbonate of potassium, 
8; water to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 83. 

2. Mistura Potassii Citratis. — Fresh lemon juice, 100; Bicarbonate of 
potassium, about 10. 

Dose, 1 to 8 3 . 



112 inorganic materia medica. 

Action of Citrate and Acetate of Potassium. 

External. — No action. Being neutral, they are not even 
antacid. 

Internal. — These are the least irritating to the stomach of 
all potassium salts ; being neutral, they have no action on gastric 
juice. They circulate as the carbonate of potassium. Both are 
more powerfully diuretic than any other potassium salts, and 
act by directly stimulating the renal cells. They are diapho- 
retic, especially the citrate; but neither of them causes a great 
increase of the perspiration. How they produce this effect is not 
certainly known. 

Therapeutics of Citrate and Acetate of Potassium. 

As neither impair digestion, they are chiefly used for remote 
effects. 

Blood. — They have been largely given for rheumatic fever, 
but are now not employed. Both salts are of great value in gout, 
for they keep in solution the excess of uric acid in the plasma. 
They are powerfully antiscorbutic ; that is to say, they prevent 
scurvy ; but they are not so efficacious as lemon juice, lime juice 
and fresh vegetables. 

Kidneys. — Although in health the diuresis produced by the 
citrate and acetate of potassium is slight, and the urea and other 
solids of the urine are actually decreased ; yet clinical expe- 
rience points clearly to the fact that both these salts are, in 
chronic Bright' s disease, powerful diuretics. They are frequently 
used in this disease and in feverish conditions, and also to in- 
crease the amount of urine, and thus to remove pathological 
fluids in cases of pleuritic effusion, ascites, etc. 

They render the urine alkaline, and are much employed for 
this purpose, having the advantage over other potassium salts 
that they do not derange digestion. Not only do they prevent 
the precipitation of uric acid, and thus hinder the formation of 
uric acid gravel, but they will dissolve small uric acid calculi. 
Sir Wm. Roberts states that to keep the urine at the alkalinity 
necessary for this purpose, 40 to 60 grains of the acetate or 



ACID TARTRATE OF POTASSIUM. II3 

citrate should be dissolved in four ounces of water, and taken 
every four hours. If more than this is used, harm is done; for 
an insoluble biurate forms on the surface of the calculus. Owing 
to the depressing action of potassium salts, they should be used 
with care in persons suffering from heart disease. 

Skin. — Both these salts may be used in slight pyrexia, such 
as that of a common cold, on account of their diaphoretic prop- 
erties. 

Lungs. — These salts, like the carbonates and bicarbonates, 
are mild saline expectorants, especially suitable for cases of bron- 
chitis, with viscid, scanty expectoration, as they increase the 
secretion and lessen the viscidity. The iodide of potassium is, 
however, still more efficacious. 



i' 



8. POTASSII SULPHAS— Sulphate of Potassium. K 2 S0 4 
Source. — Add carbonate of potassium to acid sulphate of potassium, 

which is a bye product of the manufacture of nitric acid. 2KHS0 4 + K 2 C0 3 
= 2K 2 S0 4 +C0 2 +H 2 0. 

Characters. — Hard, colorless, six-sided rhombic prisms, terminated by 
six-sided pyramids. Taste, disagreeable. Solubility. — 1 in 10 of water. 

Impurities. — Other sulphates and chlorides. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

9. POTASSII TARTRAS.— Tartrate of Potassium. K 2 C 4 H 4 6 , H 3 0, 
Source. — Neutralize a hot solution of carbonate of potassium with acid 

tartrate of potassium. 

2 KHC 4 H 4 6 + K 2 C0 3 = 2 K 2 C 4 H 4 6 + H 2 +- C0 2 . 

Characters.— Small, colorless, deliquescent monoclinic prisms. Solu- 
bility. — 10 in 8 of water. 

Impurities. — Acid tartrate and carbonate of potassium. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. (diuretic), 2 to 4 dr. (purgative). 

10. POTASSII BITARTRAS. - Acid Tartrate of Potassium. KH 4 
C 4 H0 6 . Synonyms. — Bitartrate of potash; Cream of tartar. 

Source. — Obtained by purification from crude tartar (argol) deposited on 
the sides of wine casks during the fermentation of grape juice. 

Characters. — A fine, white, gritty powder or colorless or slightly opaque 
rhombic crystals. Taste, pleasant, acid. Solubility. I in 210 of cold water. 

Impurity. — Tartrate of calcium. 

Dose, 20 to 60 gr. (diuretic and refrigerant) ; 2 to 8 dr. (purgative). 

It is contained in Pulvis Jalapae Compositus. 



114 inorganic materia medica. 

Action of the Acid Tartrate, Tartrate and Sulphate of 

Potassium. 

External. — One of these being only slightly acid and the 
others neutral, they have none of the external caustic or antacid 
properties of other potassium salts. 

Internal. — Intestines. — All three salts are typical hydra- 
gogue saline purges, producing easy, soft, watery motions 
without griping. They abstract fluid from the blood, and cause 
it to be poured into the intestine. Their mode of action has 
already been fully described (see p. 82). 

Liver. — The sulphate of potassium is a moderate chola- 
gogue, slightly increasing the biliary flow. 

Kidney. — The tartrate and acid tartrate are diuretics, 
because a small amount of them is, in the intestine, converted 
into a carbonate and absorbed, and this acts directly on the renal 
cells. Hence they render the urine alkaline. But all the sul- 
phate and most of the tartrate and acid tartrate is excreted with 
the faeces, and if, as seems probable, some is absorbed by the 
small intestine in the form in which it is taken, it is excreted 
again into the colon. 

Therapeutics of the Acid Tartrate, Tartrate, and Sul- 
phate of Potassium. 

Internal. — Intestines. — These excellent purgatives are fre- 
quently used, especially for habitual sluggishness of the bowels. 
A dose should be dissolved in a tumbler of warm water, and sipped 
during dressing. They may be employed to open the bowels in 
cases, such as dropsy or uraemia, in which we wish to eliminate as 
much fluid as possible. They should for this purpose be given in 
a concentrated form, for then a large amount of fluid will be 
secreted from the intestine to bring the solution of the salt to 
that degree of dilution at which it will act. Compound jalap 
powder is also much used for this class of cases. The sulphate of 
potassium having some cholagogue action, is to be preferred when 
it is believed that the liver is at fault. 



NITRATE OF POTASSIUM. 115 

Kidney. — The tartrate and acid tartrate are sometimes used as 
diuretics in the same class of cases as the acetate and citrate. 

11. POTASSII NITRAS. -Nitrate of Potassium. KN0 3 . Synonyms, 
— Nitre, Saltpetre. 

Source. — Purified native saltpetre. 

Characters. — White, striated, six-sided rhombic prisms. Taste, cool, 
saline. Solubility. — 1 in 4 of water. 

Impurities. — Sulphates, chlorides and lime. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gpr. 

// is used to prepare, Argenti Nitras Dilutus and Charta Potassii Nitratis. 

Action of Nitrate of Potassium. 

External. — Nothing noteworthy. 

Internal. — Stomach and Intestines. — It is liable to cause 
nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, symptomatic of the gastritis and 
enteritis produced by it. 

Blood. — Owing to its high diffusion power it quickly passes 
into the blood unchanged. External to the body, nitrates prevent 
the coagulation of the blood, or dissolve the clot if it be already 
formed, but it is not known that they have any effect on the blood 
in the body. 

Heart. — Nitrate of potassium is a powerful cardiac depres- 
sant, causing the beats to become feeble and few Large doses 
lead to great weakness, fainting, and death. 

Kidneys. — Small doses are diuretic from their direct action 
on the renal cells, but large ones are liable to inflame the urinary 
passages, causing haematuria. The drug is excreted unchanged 
in the urine. 

Skin. - Nitrate of potassium is a mild diaphoretic. 

Therapeutics of Nitrate of Potassium. 

Internal. — Blood.— On account of its supposed action in 
preventing the coagulation of the living blood, it has been used 
in rheumatic fever and many inflammatory conditions, but it is 
now discarded. Probably, as it is a cardiac depressant, it only 
does harm. 



Il6 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Kidneys and Skin. — It is sometimes employed as a diuretic and 
diaphoretic in febrile conditions, but the acetate and the citrate 
are much preferable. 

Asthma. — For the treatment of this symptom, unsized paper 
is soaked in a solution of nitre of 120 gr. to the fluid ounce 
of water, six pieces about i 1 /^ inches square are, when dry, suc- 
cessively placed in a jar and lighted one at a time (officinal, 
as Charta Potassii Nitratis). The patient inhales the fumes. 
Ringer considers it better to dip the paper also into a solution of 
chlorate of potash, and to burn a piece large enough to fill a 
whole room with the fumes. This treatment often relieves. 

12. POTASSII CHLORAS.— Chlorate of Potassium. KC10 3 . 

Source. — Pass chlorine into a mixture of carbonate of potassium and 
slaked lime; then dissolve the result in boiling water and separate the chlorate 
by recrystallization. K 2 C0 3 + 6Ca2HO -f 1 2CI = 2KCIO3 + 5CaCl 2 + CaC0 3 
+ 6H 2 0. 

Characters.— Colorless, monoclinic prisms or plates. Taste, cool. 
Easily explodes on trituration with many substances, especially sugar, sulphur, 
tannin, charcoal, and glycerine. Solubility, I in 16 of cold water. 

Impurities. — Chloride of calcium and lime. 

Dose, 3 to 20 gr. 

Preparation. 

Trochisci Potassii Chloratis. 5 gr in each. 

The chlorate should be added last to prevent the risk of explosion. 

Dose, 1 to 6 lozenges. 

Action of Chlorate of Potassium. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Stomach and Intestines. — Small doses have no 
effect ; poisonous ones produce symptoms similar to those induced 
by the nitrate. 

Blood. — Here also small doses have no effect, but several cases 
of poisoning show that in large doses chlorate of potassium disin- 
tegrates the red corpuscles, and converts haemoglobin into me- 
thaemoglobin. The altered blood is passed by the urine, which 
is therefore dark colored, and contains granular debris, and thus 
the urine is exactly like that met with in paroxysmal hsemo- 



SODA. 117 

globinuria. The liver and spleen are enlarged, and the marrow 
of the bones becomes very vascular. Nephritis is induced. Death 
occurs from cardiac weakness. 

As chlorate of potassium easily parts with its oxygen, it was 
supposed that it would do so in the blood, but this is not so. It 
is excreted unchanged in the urine. 

Therapeutics. 

This drug is used empirically for stomatitis, tonsillitis, and 
pharyngitis of all varieties, either as lozenges, gargle (10 gr. to 
5 j of water or decoction of cinchona), or given to be swallowed 
in solution, for it is then excreted by the saliva. Its action is 
therefore always local. It is especially valuable for ulcerative 
stomatitis. It has been given to women liable to miscarry. 

13. POTASSII PERMANGANAS, see Manganese. 

14. POTASSII IODIDUM, see Iodine. 

15. POTASSII BROMIDUM, see Bromine. 

16. POTASSA SULPHURATA, see Sulphur. 

17. POTASSII FERROCYANIDUM, used to prepare Acidum Hy- 
drocyanicum Dilutum, and Potassii Cyanidum, also as a test. 

18. POTASSII CYANIDUM.— Action similar to that of Hydrocyanic 
Acid. 

Dose, 2 V to l gr. 

19. POTASSII BICHROMAS.— Bichromate of Potassium. K 2 C 2 7 . 
Source. — From yellow chromate of potassium and sulphuric acid. 
Characters. — Large orange-red, transparent, four-sided, tabular prisms, 

odorless, having a bitter, disagreeable, metallic taste, and an acid reaction. 
Soluble in 10 parts of water; insoluble in alcohol. 
Dose, T V to 1 gr. 

20. SAPO VIRIDIS, soft soap, is Oleate of Potassium; see Olive Oil. 

II. SODIUM. 

Symbol, Na. Combining weight, 23. (Not officinal). 

It decomposes water, and must therefore be kept under naphtha. 

1. SODA.— Caustic Soda. NaHO. 

Source. — Made from Liquor Sodse by evaporation. 

Characters. — Grayish- white solid masses, or in cylindrical pencils. 

Impurities. — As of Liquor Sodae. (See below.) 



Il8 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. LIQUOR SOD^E.- Solution of Soda. NaHO. 

Source. — An aqueous solution of carbonate of sodium is boiled with 
slaked lime. The supernatant liquid is then siphoned off. Na 2 C0 3 -f- Ca(OH) 2 
= 2NaHO+CaC0 3 . 

Characters. — A colorless alkaline fluid. Taste very caustic. Sp. gr. 
I.059; strength about 5 per cent, of the hydrate. 

Impurities. — Lime, sulphates, chlorides, carbonate. 

Incompatibles. — The same as of Liquor Potassae. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m., freely diluted. 

Action of Soda. 

It is in all respects save one similar in its action to potash. 
The difference is, that sodium salts are all much less depressant 
to the cardiac, muscular, and nervous systems, and therefore far 
less poisonous than potassium salts. 

Therapeutics of Soda. 
It is very little used. Potash is almost always preferred. 

Toxicology. 

Poisoning by caustic alkalies is very rare ; usually it takes place either by 
potash, soda, pearlash (potassium carbonate), or soap lees (sodium carbonate). 
(Both the last are impure. They contain caustic soda or potash.) 

Symptoms. — A caustic taste is experienced, and is quickly followed by 
symptoms of gastro-intestinal irritation, viz., burning heat in the throat, vomit- 
ing, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, together with those of depression, viz., a 
feeble quick pulse, and a cold and clammy skin. Soon the lips, tongue, and 
throat become swollen, soft, and red. Post-7nortem appearances. — The mucous 
membrane of the mouth, tongue, stomach, and oesophagus, and occasionally 
that of the larynx, is excoriated, dark, softened, and inflamed. 

Treatment. — Wash out the stomach, or give emetics, as sulphate of zinc, 
20 gr. ; or powdered ipecacuanha, 30 gr. ; or sulphate of copper, 5 gr. in half a 
pint of tepid water; or vinum ipecacuanhae, gj; or mustard, a tablespoonful in 
half a pint of tepid water ; or common salt, 2 tablespoonfuls in half a pint of 
tepid water; or ^ gr. of apomorphine hypodermically. If none of these are 
handy, give plenty of warm water and tickle the back of the throat - Then give 
feeble acids, as vinegar, diluted lemon juice, dilute solution of citric acid, dilute 
acetic acid. Then demulcents as oil, linseed tea, or water and white of egg. 

3. SODII CARBONAS.— Carbonate of Sodium, Na 2 C0 3 , ioH.,0. 
Synonym. — Soda or washing soda. 



BICARBONATE OF SODA. II9 

Source. — Made thus : — First stage, chloride of sodium and sulphuric acid 
are heated together. 2NaCl + H 2 S0 4 = Na 2 S0 4 + 2HCI. Second stage, 
the sulphate of sodium is heated with carbon, Na 2 S0 4 + 4C = Na 2 S + 4-CO. 
Third stage, the sulphide of sodium is heated with chalk. Na 2 S + CaCO s =. 
Na 2 C0 3 + CaS. 

Characters. — Large monoclinic crystals, transparent when fresh, but 
they soon effloresce, and become white on the surface. Taste, caustic. Solu- 
bility, I in 2 of cold water. 

Impurities.— Sulphates and chlorides. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Used to prepare Pilulae ferri composite. 

4. SODII CARBONAS EXSICCATUS. — Dried Carbonate of 
Sodium. Na 2 C0 3 . 

Source. — 200 parts of carbonate of sodium are broken into small frag- 
ments, allowed to effloresce, then gently heated until it becomes a white powder, 
weighing 1 00 parts. 

Characters. — A dry white powder. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 



Action and Therapeutics of the Carbonate and Dried 

Carbonate of Sodium. 

The same as those of soda, except that the carbonate is less 
caustic. 

5. SODII BICARBONAS.— Bicarbonate of Sodium. NaHC0 3 . 
Source. — Made from the carbonate in the same way as the bicarbonate of 

potassium is made. Or, by the reaction of chloride of sodium and bicarbonate 
of ammonium. 

Characters. — A white opaque powder. Slightly alkaline ; not caustic. 

Solubility. — I in 12 of cold water. 

Impurities. — The carbonate. 

Incompatibles. — It is decomposed by acids and acid salts, e g., subnitrate 
of bismuth. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Preparation. 

Trochisci Sodii Bicarbonatis. — 3 gr. in each. 
Dose, i to 6. 

6. SODII BICARBONAS VENALIS is used externally. 



120 inorganic materia medica. 

Action of Bicarbonate of Sodium. 

The same as that of bicarbonate of potassium, except that it is 
much more slowly absorbed from the gastro- intestinal tract, 
and like all sodium salts it is only feebly depressant. 

Therapeutics of Bicarbonate of Sodium. 

External. — A lotion of 7 grs. to 1 fl.oz, of water is 
employed as a sedative to relieve itching. 

Internal. — Stomach — Its use in disease is very similar to that 
of the corresponding salt of potassium, but on account of the 
two differences just mentioned it is much more frequently given. 
Hence it is a very common ingredient of medicines designed to 
relieve dyspepsia, being taken at or a little before meals to increase 
the flow of gastric juice, or some time afterwards to neutralize 
excessive acidity in the class of cases in which the patient com- 
plains of heartburn and acid eructations. Its value is also partly 
due to its sedative action on the gastric nerves, whereby it 
relieves gastric pain, and partly also to its power of liquefying 
tenacious mucus. A very favorite gastric sedative mixture con- 
sists of about 10 grains of bicarbonate of sodium, together 
with 10 grains of sub-carbonate of bismuth, suspended in muci- 
lage. A grain or two of bicarbonate of sodium with a grain of 
powdered rhubarb and some sugar, forms a common stomachic 
powder for children. Bicarbonate of sodium and gentian are 
also often combined together in stomachic mixtures. 

It is so slowly absorbed, and is, in comparison with potassium 
salts, so poor a solvent of uric acid, that it is rarely used for any 
effects it may have after absorption. 

7. SODII PHOSPHAS.— Phosphate of Sodium. Na 2 HP0 4 , I2H 2 0. 

Source. — Digest bone ash with sulphuric acid ; acid phosphate of calcium 
is formed. Ca 3 2P0 4 + 2H 2 S0 4 == CaH 4 2P0 4 + 2CaS0 4 . 

Filter and add to the solution carbonate of sodium. CaH 4 2P0 4 -f- Na 2 C0 3 
= Na 2 HP0 4 + H 2 + C0 2 + CaHP0 4 . 

Characters. — Transparent, colorless, efflorescent, monoclinic prisms. 
Taste, mildly saline. Solubility, 1 in 5 of cold water. 

Impurity. — Phosphate of lime. 

Dose, 5 gr. to 1 oz. 



SULPHATE AND PHOSPHATE OF SODIUM. 121 

8. SODII SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Sodium, Na 2 S0 4 , ioH 2 0. Sy- 
nonym. — Glauber's salts. 

Source. — Neutralize the residue left in the manufacture of hydrochloric 
acid from salt with carbonate of sodium. 2NaHS0 4 + Na 2 C0 3 = 2Na 2 S0 4 -f- 
C0 2 +H 2 0. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, monoclinic prisms, efflorescing on 
exposure to air. Neutral; taste saline. Solubility, I in 3 of water. 

Impurities. — Salts of ammonium and iron. 

Dose, 1 to 8 gr. 

9. POTASSII ET SODII TARTRAS.— KNaC 4 H 4 6 , 4H 2 0. Sy- 
nonyms. — Tartrate of sodium and potassium, Rochelle salt. 

Source. — Add acid tartrate of potassium to a hot solution of carbonate of 
sodium. 2KHC 4 H 4 6 + Na 2 C0 3 = 2KNaC 4 H 4 6 + H 2 + C0 2 . 

Characters. — Large, colorless, neutral, rhombic prisms. Taste, like 
common salt. Solubility. — I in 2 of cold water. 

Impurity. — Acid tartrate of potassium. 

Dose, ^ to ^ oz. (purgative), 30 to 60 gr. (diuretic). 

Preparation. 

Pulvis Effervescens Compositus. — Synonym. — Seidlitz powder. 
Take tartrate of potassium and sodium 1440 grains, and bicar- 
bonate of sodium, 480 grains ; mix, divide into twelve equal parts and 
wrap in blue paper. Tartaric acid 420 grains, divide into twelve equal 
parts, wrapped in white paper. 

Dose. — Dissolve the powder in the blue paper in nearly half a pint 
of cold or warm water, and then add that in the white paper, and drink 
while effervescing. 

Action of Tartrate of Potassium and Sodium, Sulphate 
and Phosphate of Sodium. 

Internal. — Intestines. — Owing to the slowness with which 
compared to the corresponding potassium salts, these sodium 
salts are absorbed, they pass on into the intestines and there act 
more efficiently than potassium salts. They are typical saline 
purgatives, abstracting fluid from the blood until they form a 
5 per cent, solution, and then exerting a painless laxative effect, 
produce a soft motion about two or three hours after administra- 
tion {see p. 82). The sulphate, which is the most active pur- 
gative, and the phosphate are mild cholagogues. 
11 



122 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Blood and kidneys, — Owing to their tardy absorption the 
action of these salines, as alkalizers of the blood and urine and 
as diuretics, is more feeble than that of the corresponding potas- 
sium salts. 

Therapeutics of Tartrate of Potassium and Sodium, Sul- 
phate and Phosphate of Sodium. 

Internal. — Intestines. — These salts of sodium are some of the 
best purgatives we possess, being especially useful for habitual 
constipation, and for constipation associated with gout, with 
hepatic dyspepsia, or with any of the manifestations of an excess 
of uric acid in the blood or the urine. The best way to take 
them is to dissolve the required amcunt in half a tumbler of 
lukewarm water, and to drink it in successive small draughts 
while dressing in the morning. The bowels are then usually com- 
fortably opened soon after breakfast. These salts, especially the 
phosphate and sulphate, are also cholagogues; these two are 
therefore to be preferred in cases of disease of the liver. The 
sulphate is the most powerful purgative of all. It is the chief 
constituent of Carlsbad, Marienbad, Tarasp, Villacabras and 
Condal waters, and it occurs associated with much sulphate of 
magnesium in ^Esculap, Hunyadi Janos, Seidlitz, Pullna, Fried- 
richshal, and Kissingen waters. A powder consisting of 30 
grains of each of sulphate of sodium and sulphate of magnesium 
and a grain of chloride of sodium and bicarbonate of sodium 
(dose 1 to 4 dr.). forms when dissolved a good imitation of 
^Esculap, Hunyadi Janos, and Franz Joseph waters. The phos- 
phate is a milder and less unpleasant purgative than the others ; 
it is often given to children. The effervescing preparation is a 
palatable form. 

If large doses are used, the evacuations are very watery, and 
therefore these drugs are useful to remove fluid in cases of dropsy 
or ascites (especially if due to disease of the liver). 

10. SODII CHLORIDUM.— Chloride of Sodium. NaCl. Synonym. 
— Common salt. 

Source. — Occurs native. 



CHLORIDE OF SODIUM. I 23 

Characters. — Small, white, crystalline grains or transparent cubic crystals. 
Solubility. — 1 in 2^f of cold water. 
Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Action of Chloride of Sodium. 

Common salt forms an article of diet with all creatures living 
on vegetable food, especially if it contains large amounts of 
potassium, but is not used either by carnivorous animals or by 
tribes living solely on flesh. The importance of it is seen in the 
long distances herbivorous animals will wander to salt licks, and 
.by the fact that tribes living on vegetables will go to war for the 
possession of it. Bunge's explanation of this desire for salt is as 
follows : Blood plasma contains much chloride of sodium, vege- 
table foods contain a large amount of potassium salts; when, 
therefore, these salts of potassium reach the blood, chloride of 
potassium and the sodium salt of the acid which was combined 
with the potassium are formed. This and the chloride of potas- 
sium are excreted by the kidneys, and the blood loses its chloride 
of sodium, which loss is therefore made up by taking chloride of 
sodium with the food. The deprival of salt leads to general 
weakness, oedema and anaemia, a series of symptoms often seen 
in France before the repeal of the salt tax. 

Quantities of a tablespoonful and upwards act as an emetic, 
and may also purge. Rectal injections of solutions of salt kill 
the Oxyuris vertnicularis. 

Therapeutics of Chloride of Sodium. 

It is occasionally used as an emetic, also as an anthelmintic. 
Bathing in sea water acts as a mild general stimulant. 

11. SODII SULPHIS.— Sulphite of Sodium. Na 2 S0 3 , 7H 2 0. 

Source. — Saturate a solution of carbonate of sodium or caustic soda with 
sulphurous acid gas. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, monoclinic prisms. Solubility, — I 
in 4 of water. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 



124 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

12. SODII BISULPHIS.— Bisulphite of Sodium. NaHS0 8 . 
Source. — From sodium carbonate or bicarbonate and sulphurous acid gas. 
Characters. — Opaque, prismatic crystals, or a crystalline or granular 

powder, having a faint, sulphurous odor, a disagreeable, sulphurous taste, and an 
acid reaction. Soluble in 4 parts of water, and in 72 parts of alcohol. 
Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

13. SODII HYPOSULPHIS.— Hyposulphite of Sodium. Na 2 S 2 3 , 
5 H 2 0. 

Source. — Pass sulphurous anhydride into a solution of sodium with sulphur. 
Characters. — Large, colorless, transparent crystals. Solubility. — I in 
lyi of water. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics of Sulphite, Bisulphite and of 
Hyposulphite of Sodium. 

Sodium sulphite is, in the stomach, decomposed by the acids 
there, and gives off sulphurous anhydride. It may therefore be 
given to arrest fermentation. No other action of these salts is 
known. If any remains undecomposed, it is absorbed as a sul- 
phite. They are very rarely given in medicine, but in sufficient 
doses might produce the effects of sodium sulphate. 

14. SODII BROMIDUM, see Bromine. 

15. SODII IODIDUM, see Iodine. 

16. SODII HYPOPHOSPHIS, see Phosphorus. 

17. SODII ARSENIAS, see Arsenic. 

18. SODII SULPHOCARBOLAS, see Acidum Carbolicum. 

19. LIQUOR SOD;© CHLORINATE, see Chlorine. 

20. SODII NITRAS.— Nitrate of Sodium. NaN0 3 . 
Source. — Imported from South America. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, rhombhedral crystals, slightly deli- 
quescent, odorless, having a cooling, saline and slightly bitter taste and a neutral 
reaction. Soluble in 1.3 parts of water; scarcely soluble in cold alcohol. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 oz. 

21. SODII ACET AS.— Acetate of Sodium. NaC 2 H 3 2 , 3H 2 0. 
Source. — From carbonate of sodium and acetic acid. 

Characters. — Large, colorless, transparent, monoclinic prisms, efflores- 



AMMONIUM. 125 

cent, odorless, having a saline, bitter taste, and a nauseous or faintly alkaline 
reaction. Soluble in 3 parts of water, and in 30 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 10 to 60 gr. 

Uses. 

Acetate of Sodium is diuretic, but it is rarely used as a medicine. 
It is employed principally to yield acetic acid by the action of sulphuric 
acid. 

22. SODII BENZOAS, see Acidum Benzoicum. 

23. SODII VALERIANAS, see Valeriana. 

24. SODII SALICYLAS, see Acidum Salicylicum. 

25. SODIUM BORAS, see Acidum Boricum. 

26. SODII CHLORAS.— Chlorate of Sodium. NaC10 3 . 
Source. — From sodium bitartrate and potassium chloras. 
Characters. — Colorless, transparent, tetrahedrons of the regular system, 

odorless, having a cooling, saline taste, and a neutral reaction. Soluble in 1. 1 
parts of water, and in 40 parts of alcohol. 
Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Uses. 

Chlorate of Sodium has medicinal properties similar to those of 
the chlorate of potassium, whilst its greater solubility permits the use 
of stronger solutions. 

27. SODII PYROPHOSPHAS.— Pyrophosphate of Sodium. Na 4 P 2 
7 , ioH 2 0. 

Source. — From heating sodium phosphate. 

Characters.- — Colorless, translucent, monoclinic prisms, odorless, having 
a cooling, saline and feebly alkaline taste and a slightly alkaline reaction. Solu- 
ble in 1 2 parts of water, and insoluble in alcohol. 

Uses. 
Sodii Pyrophosphas is used for making pyrophosphate of iron. 

28. SAPO, Hard Soap, is Sodium Oleate; see Olive oil. 

III. AMMONIUM. 

Symbol, NH 4 . Combining weight, 18. (Not officinal.) 
I. AQUA AMMONIA FORT I OR. —Stronger Water of Ammonia. 

NH 3 (28 per cent, by weight of the gas dissolved in water). 

Source. — Generate ammonia gas by heating chloride of ammonium with 

slaked lime, and pass it into water. 2NH 4 C1 + Ca(OH 2 ) = 2NH3 + 2H 2 

+ CaCl 2 . 



126 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid, of a very pungent odor, and very alka- 
line. Sp. gr. 0.900. 

Impurities. — Ammonium chloride, sulphide and sulphate. 
Dose, 3 to 6 m., well diluted. 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Ammoniae contains 10 per cent, by weight of the gas 
dissolved in alcohol. 
Dose, 10 to 60 m. 

2. AQUA AMMONIA. — Water of Ammonia. NH 3 (10 per cent, by 
weight dissolved in water). 

Source. — Mix strong solution of ammonia, 1 part, and distilled water, 2 
parts. 

Characters. — Like, but less pungent than the strong solution. Sp. gr. 
0-959- 

Dose, 10 to 20 m., well diluted. 

Preparations. 

1. Linimentum Ammoniae. — Aqua Ammoniae, 30; cotton seed 

oil, 70. 

2. Spiritus Ammonias Aromaticus, see Ammonium Carbonate. 

Action of Solutions of Ammonia. 

External. — A solution of ammonia produces rubefaction 
with a sensation of heat, and, if strong, a sensation of pain and 
burning. If the vapor is confined, it causes vesication. 

Internal. — Nose. — When inhaled, the vapor of ammonia is 
irritating to the nose and air passages, causing a pungent sensa- 
tion and sneezing. The eyes and nose water. The pulse and 
respiration are reflexly accelerated. If very concentrated, 
it produces swelling and inflammation of the nose, glottis and 
respiratory tract. 

Stomach, — Like other alkalies, given before meals ammonia 
increases the flow of gastric juice; given after meals, it neutral- 
izes it. It dilates the gastric vessels, and produces a feeling of 
warmth in the epigastrium. It reflexly stimulates the heart 
and respiration. 

Blood. — Its action on the blood is not known ; but it is sup- 
posed to diminish its local liability to clot in cases of thrombo- 
sis, and to dissolve that already formed. 



CARBONATE OF AMMONIUM. 127 

Heart. — Ammonia causes a rise of blood-pressure with an 
increased pulse rate, due probably to stimulation of the accelera- 
tor mechanism. 

Respiration. — It increases greatly the frequency of respira- 
tion, probably from stimulation of the respiratory centre in the 
medulla. 

Nervous system. — The brain is unaffected, and the nerves also, 
except for the tingling produced when a strong solution of 
ammonia is locally applied. The motor functions of spinal 
cord are greatly stimulated by large doses, hence the convulsions 
in animals poisoned by this drug. 

Kidneys. — Ammonia and its salts are oxidized in the body, 
and the nitric acid, uric acid, and urea in the urine are increased, 
and thus the acidity of this fluid is slightly heightened. 

Therapeutics of Solutions of Ammonia. 

External. — The liniment is used as counter-irritant in 
numerous conditions, such as chronic joint disease, chronic 
rheumatism, etc., and is often rubbed on the chest in bronchitis. 
Ammonia is a very uncertain vesicant. Weak solutions of it are 
often applied to the bites of insects. Aqua ammoniae is very 
valuable when held to the nose of any one who has fainted, for it 
almost instantly, reflexly produces its stimulating effect on the 
heart and respiration. 

Internal. — Ammonia in some form may be given before 
meals as a gastric stimulant in dyspepsia. Sal volatile {see below) 
is often used for this purpose, and also for its general stimulating 
effect on the cardiac, respiratory, and spinal systems, especially 
in sudden collapse from any cause. Ammonia has been injected 
subcutaneously in cases of snake-bite. 

3. AMMONII CARBONAS.— Carbonate of Ammonium. N 3 H n C 2 5 . 

Source. — A mixture of sulphate or chloride of ammonium and carbonate 
of calcium is subjected to sublimation and resublimation. It is of uncertain 
composition, probably it is a compound of acid carbonate of ammonium (NH 4 
HC0 3 ) with carbonate of ammonium (NH 4 NH 2 C0 2 ), about one molecule of 
each. 



128 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Translucent crystalline cakes, volatile, and pungent to the 
smell. Solubility, I in 4 of water. 

Impurities. — Sulphates and chlorides. 
Dose, 2 to 15 gr. (stimulant or expectorant). 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Ammoniae Aromaticus. Synonym. — Sal Volatile. 
Carbonate of ammonium, 40 parts; water of ammonia, loo parts; oil of 
pimenta, I part; oil of lemon, 12 parts; alcohol, 700 parts; oil of laven- 
der flowers, 1 part. Add water to make 1 000 parts. Sp. gr. about 0.885. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Used in making Tinct. Guaiaci Ammoniata and Tinct. Valerianae 
Ammoniata. 

Action and Therapeutics of Carbonate of Ammonium. 

The external and internal actions of the carbonate are the 
same as those of Aqua Ammoniae. It is not used externally, but 
Spiritus Ammoniae Aromaticus is inhaled for its reflex effects, is 
taken as a gastric stimulant and carminative in dyspepsia, and 
as a cardiac and general stimulant in syncope, etc. The 
carbonate is, in addition, an excellent expectorant, stimulating 
the respiratory movements, and by its general stimulating effect 
aiding the expulsion of thick mucus. It is most used for bron- 
chitis in children and the aged. It is an emetic acting directly 

on the stomach. 

Toxicology. 

Liquor ammoniae and the carbonate produce symptoms like other alkalies, 
but are more corrosive. The air-passages are often inflamed, and the inhalation 
of the vapor has been known to kill from this cause. 

Treat7nent as for other alkalies. 

4. AMMONII CHLORIDUM.— Chloride of Ammonium. NH 4 C1. 
Synonym. — Sal ammoniac. 

Source. — Neutralize gas liquor with hydrochloric acid, evaporate and 
purify. NH 4 HO + HC1 = NH 4 C1 + H 2 0. 

Characters — Translucent, fibrous masses or colorless crystals, volatile. 
Solubility. — I in 4 of water. 

Impurities. — Chiefly tarry matters. 

Dose, 1 to 30 gr. 

Preparation. 

Trochisci Ammonii Chloridi. — 2 grains in each. 
Dose, 1 to 6 troches. 



acetate of ammonium. 1 29 

Action of Chloride of Ammonium. 

Locally applied chloride of ammonium increases the secretion 
of mucous membranes, and to a slight extent it does the same after 
absorption. It is a feeble cholagogue, diaphoretic, and diuretic. 

Therapeutics of Chloride of Ammonium. 
It is a very favorite remedy for local application, by means of 
inhalation of the vapor, to increase the secretion of mucus from 
the pharynx, Eustachian tubes, larynx, trachea and bronchi in 
cases of chronic pharyngitis, otitis media, laryngitis, and bron- 
chitis. Many forms of apparatus for its inhalation are in the 
market. In most of them it is generated by the action of hydro- 
chloric acid on ammonia. It is occasionally given by the mouth 
either as a cholagogue, gastric stimulant, diaphoretic, diuretic, or 
expectorant, but it is too feeble to be recommended, and it is very 
nasty ; the taste may to some extent be concealed by liquorice. 
Some authorities consider it a specific for neuralgia. It is not a 
general stimulant. 

5. LIQUOR AMMONII A GET ATI S.— Solution of Acetate of Am- 
monia. Synonym. — Mindererus' spirit. 

Source. — Carbonate of ammonium is gradually added to diluted acetic 
acid until it is neutralized. 

Incompatibles. — Potash, soda, and their carbonates, acids, lime water, 
salts of lead and silver. 

Dose, 2 to 8 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics of the Acetate of Ammonium. 
It is a mild diaphoretic and diuretic and is used only for 
these effects. It probably acts in both cases, either on the secre- 
tory cells or the nerves connected with them. It does not irritate 
the kidneys, but increases both the water and the solids excreted. 
It is employed in Bright' s disease as a diuretic, and in febrile 
conditions as a diaphoretic. 

6. AMMONII PHOSPHAS.— Phosphate of Ammonium. (NH 4 ) 2 , 
HPO,. 

Source. — -Add a strong solution of ammonia to dilute phosphoric acid. 
H 3 P0 4 + 2NH 4 HO= (NH 4 ) 2 HP0 4 + 2H 2 0. 
12 



130 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Translucent, colorless, monoclinic prisms. Solubility. — I 
in 4 of water. 

Dose, 10 to 20 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics of Phosphate of Ammonium. 
As its solution is capable of dissolving a considerable amount 
of urate of sodium it has been used for gout, and also to prevent 
the precipitation of uric acid when there is a tendency to the 
formation of uric acid calculi. 

7. AMMONII BENZOAS, ja? Acidum Benzoicum. 

8. AMMONII BROMIDUM, see Bromine. 

9. AMMONII NITRAS.— Nitrate of Ammonium. NH 4 N0 3 . 
Source. — By treating commercial ammonia carbonate with nitric acid, fil- 
tration and evaporation. 

Characters. — Colorless crystals, generally in the form of long, thin 
rhombic prisms, or in fused masses, somewhat deliquescent. Soluble in 0.5 
parts of water and 20 parts of alcohol. 

Used to prepare nitrous oxide gas. 

10. AMMONII SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Ammonium. (NH 4 ) 2 S0 4 . 
Source. — Gas liquor is distilled with lime and the distillate received into 

sulphuric acid. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, rhombic prisms, odorless, having a 
sharp, saline taste and a neutral reaction. Soluble in 1.3 parts of water, and 
insoluble in absolute alcohol. 

Used to prepare ammonia-alum and sulphate of iron and ammonia. 

11. AMMONII VALERIANAS, see Valeriana. 

IV. LITHIUM. 

Symbol, Li. Combining weight, 7. (Not officinal.) 

1. LITHII CARBONAS.— Carbonate of Lithium. Li 2 CO s . 
Source. — Action of chloride of lithium upon carbonate of ammonium. 
Characters. — A white powder, or minute crystalline grains; alkaline. 

Solubility ', 1 in 130 of water. 

Impurities. — Lime, alumina. 
Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

2. LITHII CITRAS.— Citrate of Lithium. Li 3 C 6 H 5 O r 
Source. — Action of carbonate of lithium upon citric acid. 
Characters. — White, crystalline powder. Solubility, 1 in 5.5 of water. 
Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 



CALCIUM. 



J 3I 



3. LITHII BENZOAS.— Benzoate of Lithium. LiC 7 H 5 2 . 

Source. — By decomposition of lithium carbonate by benzoic acid. 

Character. — A white powder, or small, shining scales ; odorless ; of a 
cooling and sweetish taste, and a faintly acid reaction. Soluble in 4 parts of 
water, and in 12 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Action. 

These lithium salts closely resemble in their action the corres- 
ponding potassium salts, but, as very little lithium is sufficient to 
form a salt with uric acid, and urate of lithium is very soluble, 
they are more powerful solvents of uric acid. They are also 
more efficacious as diuretics and render the urine very alka- 
line. Large doses are general depressants like potassium salts. 

Therapeutics. 

Salts of lithium are much used internally in acute and chronic 
gout, to promote the elimination of urate of sodium. They are 
also given as solvents to patients suffering from uric acid gravel 
and calculus. Those suffering from gravel often derive great 
benefit. A lotion of the carbonate (4 gr. to ^j of water) applied 
on lint and covered with gutta-percha relieves the pain of gouty 
inflammation, promotes the healing of gouty ulcers, and aids the 
disappearance of tophi. Lithium salts should always be freely 
diluted. The citrate has the advantage of greater solubility. 
The Londonderry Lithia Water from the spring at Nashua, N. H., 
is especially useful from its richness in lithium, which it contains 
in the form of the bicarbonate. 



GROUP III. 

METALS OF THE ALKALINE EARTHS. 
Calcium, Magnesium, Cerium, Aluminium, 

I. CALCIUM. 

Symbol, Ca. Combining weight, 40. (Not officinal.) 

1. CRETA PRiEPAR AT A.— Prepared Chalk. CaC0 3 . 
Source. — From chalk by elutriation and drying. 



I32 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — A dull white, amorphous powder, or is formed of small 
cones. Insoluble in water. 

Incompatibles. — Acids and sulphates. 
Dose, 10 to 60 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Pulvis Cretae Compositus. — Prepared chalk, 30; powdered 
acacia, 20; powdered sugar, 50. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

2. Hydrargyrum cum Creta, see Hydrargyrum. 

3. Mistura Cretae. Compound chalk powder, 20; water, 40; 
Cinnamon water, 40. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

4. Trochisci Cretae. 4 grains in each. 
Dose, ad libitum. 

2. CALCII CARBONAS PR^ECIPITATUS.— Precipitated Car- 
bonate of Lime. CaC0 3 . 

Source. — From chloride of calcium and carbonate of sodium, drying the 
precipitate. 

Character. — A very fine, white, impalpable powder, odorless and taste- 
less, and insoluble in water and alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Action of Calcium Carbonate. 

External. — It is mildly astringent and helps to dry moist 
surfaces. 

Internal. — Stomach and Intestines. — Calcium carbonate is 
antacid. It is a mild but certain astringent. How it acts as 
an astringent is unknown. It is excreted unchanged in the 
faeces. 

Kidneys. — Because certain mineral waters containing bicar- 
bonates and sulphate of calcium, amongst other salts, have been 
used successfully in cases of urinary gravel and calculi, it has been 
asserted that these salts are diuretic, and solvent for uric acid, but 
it is more likely that the beneficial effects of these waters are due 
merely to the large amount of water drunk; anyhow, there is no 
proof that it is due to the salts. Such waters are those of Con- 
trexeville, Vittel, Clarendon, and Waukesha. 



calcium carbonate. 1 33 

Therapeutics of Calcium Carbonate. 

External. — Prepared chalk forms an excellent dusting 
powder for moist eczema. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Because of its mechanical 
action it is a good tooth powder. Mistura cretae and pulvis cretae 
compositus, particularly the former, are very valuable for checking 
mild diarrhoea, especially in children. 

Kidneys. — There is no doubt that persons passing gravel or 
urinary calculi, especially if composed of uric acid, are benefited 
by drinking the waters of Contrexeville and Vittel. They should 
be taken in quantities of 3 to 6 pints a day and between meals, 
to avoid the large amount of fluid causing indigestion. At 
Contrexeville the great bulk is drunk before breakfast. 

3. CALX.— Lime. CaO. 

Source. ^Made by calcining chalk to expel carbonic acid gas. 

Characters. — Compact masses of a whitish color which readily absorb 
water, and then swell and crack, with great evolution of heat, and fall into a 
powder (slaked lime). Solubility, I in 750 parts of water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Preparations. 

1. Liquor Calcis. Synonym. — Lime water. 
Source. — Made from slaked lime by solution. 
Dose, 1 to 8 fl. dr. 

2. Syrupus Calcis. — Lime, 5; sugar, 30; water, to 100. 
Dose, 15 to 60 m. 

3. Linimentum Calcis. — Equal parts of lime water and cotton 
seed oil. 

Carron oil is composed of equal parts of lime water and linseed oil. 



Action of Lime and Slaked Lime. 

External. — Slaked lime is caustic. Lime water is astringent. 

Internal. — Alimentary tract. — Lime is antacid. It prevents 
milk from curdling in the stomach. It allays vomiting, and 
is an antidote for poisoning by mineral acids, oxalic acid, and 
chloride of zinc. It acts as a mild intestinal astringent. 



134 inorganic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Slaked lime, employed as a caustic, is usually 
mixed with caustic potash, when it forms Vienna paste, used to 
destroy warts and other small growths. Lime water applied to 
weeping eczema is especially serviceable if mixed with glycerine. 
Linimentum Calcis is very valuable for burns. 

Internal. — Lime water is much used to mix with milk to 
prevent its curdling in the stomach, especially when, as is often 
the case with children, the curds cause vomiting. It is difficult 
to understand how it acts, for, although lime water contains so 
little lime, it is often efficacious. In severe cases of infantile 
vomiting equal parts of milk and lime water may be ordered. 
Lime water will check slight diarrhoea. It is a useful injection 
for threadworms, for leucorrhoea, and for gleet. 

4. CALCII PHOSPHAS PRiECIPITATUS.— Precipitated Phos- 
phate of Calcium. Ca 3 (P0 4 ) 2 . Synonym. — Precipitated phosphate of lime. 

Source. — Made from bone ash (impure Calcii Phosphas) by precipitation. 
Characters. — A light, white, amorphous powder, insoluble in water. 
Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparation. 

Syrupus Calcis Lactophosphatis. — Precipitated phosphate of calcium, 
22; lactic acid, 33; orange flower water, 80; Sugar, 600; water, etc., 1 000. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Therapeutics of Phosphate of Calcium. 

As it forms such an important constituent of bones, and as the 
bones of animals whose diet contains no lime salts are soft, phos- 
phate of calcium has been given for rickets, and for the anaemia 
and feebleness often seen in young children, but it is not certain 
that it does any good. 

5. CALX SULPHURATA. — Sulphurated Lime. A mixture contain- 
ing much sulphate of calcium, and not less than 36 per cent, of sulphide of cal- 
cium (CaS). 

Source. — Obtained by heating a mixture of lime and precipitated sulphur. 
Character. — A nearly white powder, with a peculiar smell. 
Dose, T V to 1 gr. 



carbonate of magnesium. 1 35 

Therapeutics of Calx Sulphurata. 

It has been given internally in cases of suppuration, but it 
probably has no influence on the process. 

6. CALCII CHLORIDUM.- Chloride of Calcium. CaCl 2 . 
Source. — Obtained by neutralizing hydrochloric acid with carbonate of 

calcium and evaporating. 

Characters. — White deliquescent masses, having a great affinity for water. 
Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

. Therapeutics of Chloride of Calcium. 

It used to be given with the object of reducing enlarged 
lymphatic glands, but is not now employed. 

7. CALX CHLORATA, see Chlorine. 

8. CALCII HYPOPHOSPHIS, see Phosphorus. 

II. MAGNESIUM. 

Symbol, Mg. Combining weight, 24. (Not officinal.) 

1. MAGNESII SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Magnesium. MgS0 4 ,7H 2 0. 
Synonym. — Epsom salt. 

Source. — It is obtained from dolomite (native carbonate of calcium and 
magnesium), or magnesite (native carbonate of magnesium), by the action of 
sulphuric acid. MgC0 3 4-H 2 S0 4 =MgS0 4 ,H 2 04-C0 2 . 

Characters. — Minute colorless right-rhombic crystals or acicular needles, 
very like sulphate of zinc, but moister, and of a bitter taste, whilst that of the 
zinc salt is metallic. Solubility. — In 0.8 parts of cold water. 

Incompatibles. — Alkaline carbonates, phosphoric acid, phosphates, lime 
water, acetate of lead, and nitrate of silver. 

Impurities. — Lime and iron. 

Dose, 20 gr. to 1 oz. 

Preparation. 

1. Infusum Sennse Compositum. — See Senna. 

2. MAGNESII CARBONAS.— Carbonate of Magnesium. (MgC0 3 ) 4 , 
Mg(OH) 2)5 H 2 0. 

Source. — Mix strong boiling aqueous solutions of sulphate of magnesium 
and carbonate of sodium. Evaporate. 4MgS0 4 -f-4Na 2 C0 3 -[-H 2 0— (MgC0 3 ) 4 , 
Mg(OH) 2 + 4 Na 2 SO i 4-C0 2 . 

Characters. — A light, white powder, almost insoluble in water. 

Impurities. — Lime, sulphates. 

Dose, % to 2 dr. 



I36 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparations. 

1. Magnesii Citras Granulatus. — Granulated citrate of magne- 
sia. Carbonate of magnesia, 11 ; citric acid, 48; bicarbonate of sodium, 
37; sugar, 8; alcohol, distilled water, to 100. Cha?-acters. — A white, 
coarsely granular salt. Deliquescent, odorless, having a mildly acidu- 
lous, refreshing taste and an acid reaction. Soluble, with copious effer- 
vescence, in 2 parts of water ; almost insoluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 8 dr. 

2. Liquor Magnesii Citratis. — Mg 3 (C 6 H 5 7 ) 2 ,i4H 2 0. — Dissolve 
carbonate of magnesium in a solution of citric acid, add syrup of citric 
acid, then crystals of bicarbonate of potassium. Cork and wire imme- 
diately. It effervesces when uncorked. 

Dose, 2 to 8 fl. oz. 

3. Mistura Magnesise et Asafcetidae. Synonym. — Dewees' 
Carminative. Carbonate of magnesia, 3 ; tincture of asafoetida, 7; tincture 
of opium, I ; sugar, IO; water to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 4 fl. dr. 

4. Trochisci Magnesiae. 3 grains each. 
Dose, 1 to 6. 

3. MAGNESIA PONDEROSA.— Heavy Magnesia. MgO. Syno- 
nym. — Heavy magnesia. 

Source. — Heat the carbonate to expel the C0 2 . 

Characters. — A white powder, very insoluble in water, 3^ times as 
heavy as the following. 
Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

4. MAGNESIA. — Light Magnesia. MgO. Synonym. — Light mag- 
nesia. 

Characters. — A light, bulky, white powder, feebly soluble. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Prepai-aiions. 

1. Ferri Oxidum Hydratum cum Magnesia. See Iron. 

2. Pulvis Rhei Compositus. See Rhubarb. 

3. Trochisci Magnesiae. 3 grains each. See above. 

Action of Magnesium Salts. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Stomach and intestines. — Magnesia and the car- 
bonate of magnesium are antacid, acting in many ways like the 
potassium and sodium alkalies. The carbonic acid given off, if 



MAGNESIUM SALTS. 1 37 

the carbonate has been given, is sedative to the stomach. They 
are both decomposed by the gastric juice, the chloride, lactate 
and bicarbonate of magnesium being formed. These three salts, 
or the sulphate, if that has been taken, act in the intestine as 
typical saline purgatives. The sulphate is most powerful. 
The mode of action of this group of purgatives has been discussed 
on p. 82. 

Blood and urine. — Like other alkaline remedies, these mag- 
nesium salts increase the alkalinity of the blood, alkalinize the 
urine, help to keep uric acid in solution, and are diuretic. But 
their action on the blood and urine is feebler than that of salts 
of potassium and sodium, for they are with difficulty absorbed. 

Therapeutics of Magnesium Salts. 

Internal. — Stomach. — Magnesia and the carbonates are mild 
alkaline remedies, and may be used in the same class of cases as 
other alkalies. They form insoluble compounds with mineral 
acids, oxalic acid, and salts of mercury, arsenic and copper. By 
alkalinizing the gastric contents they hinder the absorption of 
alkaloids. They are, therefore, antidotes to all these substances ; 
the objection to them is their bulk. Magnesia is to be preferred, 
as the carbonate gives off carbonic acid gas. They must be 
freely given. The sulphate is an antidote to lead and barium 
salts, forming insoluble sulphates. 

Intestines. — The magnesium salts are very common purga- 
tives, Magnesia, the carbonate, and the citrate are excellent for 
children. The sulphate is one of our best saline purgatives. It 
is very largely used, especially for the varieties of constipation 
that are associated with hepatic disorder, gout, or excessive uric 
acid. Its use is then spread over some time, and it may conve- 
niently be taken as one of the mineral waters which contain it 
and sulphate of sodium (see p. 122). A concentrated solution, 
causing as it does an increased secretion of intestinal fluid, is a 
useful purge for dropsy or ascites. It is useful with glycerine in 
concentrated enema for thorough cleansing of the bowels before 
surgical operations. 



I38 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Blood and kidneys. — So little of these salts is absorbed, that 
they are only to be given for their alkaline effects on the blood 
and urine in those cases of gout and uric acid gravel in which 
potassium or sodium salts cannot be borne. 

III. CERIUM. 

Symbol, Ce. Combining weight, 92. (Xot officinal.) 
CERII OX ALAS.— Oxalate of Cerium. Ce,(C 2 4 ) 2 , qH 2 0. 
Source. — Precipitate a solution of oxalate of ammonium with a soluble 
salt of cerium. 

Characters. — A white, slightly granular powder, insoluble in water. 
Impurities. — Alumina, oxalates. 
Dose, 1 to 8 gr. 

Therapeutics. 

It is given empirically for vomiting, especially for that of preg- 
nancy, and occasionally with benefit. No physiological action 

is known. 

IV. ALUMINIUM. 

Symbol, Al. Combining weight, 27.5. (Not officinal.) 

1. ALUMEN. — Alum. A sulphate of aluminium and potassium (potas- 
sium alum, A1 2 [S0 4 ] 3 , K 2 S0 4 , 24.H 2 0). 

Source. — Made from alum schist (a mixture of silicate of aluminium and 
sulphide of iron) by roasting and exposing to the air. To the residue, sulphate 
of potassium and water are added; on evaporation the alum crystallizes. 

Characters. — Acid, regular octahedral crystals, transparent, colorless, 
and with a sweetish astringent taste. Sohtbility. — I in 1.05 of cold water; I in 
4 of glycerine. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies, lime, salts of lead, mercury, and iron, tartrates 
and tannic acid. 

Impurities. — Sulphate of iron and silicates. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

2. ALUMEN EXSICCATUM.— Dried alum. 

Source. — Heat 184 parts of potassium alum to not above 400 F., till no 
more aqueous vapor is given off, and it is reduced to 100 parts. 

Characters. — A white powder or spongy masses. Solubility. — Slowly 
but completely soluble in 20 parts of water. 

3. ALUMINII HYDRAS.— Hydrate of Aluminium. Al 2 (HO) 6 . 
SOURCE. — By solution of alum, 11 ; and carbonate of sodium, 10; in dis- 
tilled water. Heat and dry the weighed precipitate. 



ALUM. I39 

Characters. — A white, amorphous powder, odorless and tasteless, in- 
soluble in water and alcohol. 
Dose, 1 to 10 gr. 

4. ALUMINII SULPHAS. -^Sulphate of Aluminium. A1 2 (S0 4 ) 3 . 

Source. — From alum, carbonate of sodium, dissolved in water. The 
precipitate is dissolved by sulphuric acid, filtered and evaporated. 

Characters. — A white, crystalline powder, having a sweetish, astringent 
taste, and an acid reaction. Soluble in 1.2 parts of water, almost insoluble in 
alcohol. 

Action of Alum. 

External. — It has no action on the unbroken skin, but coag- 
ulates the albumen of the discharges from ulcers , sores, etc , and 
thus forms a protecting covering to the parts, and acts as an effi- 
cient astringent. The albumen in the tissues themselves is 
coagulated also. This coagulated albumen will compress and 
occlude the vessels, and thus alum is haemostatic. Dried alum 
absorbs water, and therefore its solid form is mildly caustic. 

Internal. — Alimentary tract. — Alum is an excellent astrin- 
gent for the mouth, stomach and intestines, and will cause con- 
stipation. In large doses it is emetic, acting directly on the 
stomach, and in larger still, irritant and purgative. Most, if not 
all, is passed by the faeces ; probably it has no remote effects on 
the tissues. 

Therapeutics of Alum. 

External. — It is occasionally used as a caustic to destroy 
weak exuberant granulations. Because of its astringency it has 
many uses ; it may, for example, be applied to weeping eczema- 
tous surfaces, and as an injection or soaked on lint for vulvitis of 
children. Solutions of it have been used for leucorrhcea and 
gleet. Ten grains to the fluid ounce of water is a common 
strength for most purposes. Five grains to the fluid ounce make 
a good eye wash or a gargle. Strong solutions, or powdered 
alum applied locally stop bleeding, if it is not severe, such as oc- 
curs from piles, leech bites, slight cuts, the gums and the nose 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — As a mouth wash or gargle 
(5-10 gr. to 5j) alum is very valuable in ulcerative stomatitis, in 



140 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

aphthous conditions of the mouth, and in slight pharyngitis or 
tonsillitis. One part of alum with five parts of glycerine painted 
on with a camel' s-hair brush is excellent for these conditions. 
If the nose be irrigated with a solution of alum, it may remedy a 
chronic ozaena. It has been found that other astringents are 
preferable for bleeding from the stomach and for diarrhoea, but a 
teaspoon ful of alum dissolved in simple syrup and given every 
quarter of an hour till vomiting is produced is an excellent emetic 
for children, and may be used to produce vomiting in laryngitis 
and bronchitis, as it is non-depressant. It is a strange fact that 
in lead colic, alum will sometimes open the bowels, probably be- 
cause, being a sulphate, it precipitates any lead salt as an insolu- 
ble sulphate of lead. 



GROUP IV. 

Plumbum, Argentum, Zincum, Cuprum, Bismuthum. 

The pharmacopoeial salts of these metals are powerful astringents. 
Many of them have some salts which are emetics, and others which, when 
applied locally, are caustic. Aluminium, which was last considered, would 
pharmacologically fall into this group. 

I. PLUMBUM. 

Lead. Symbol, Pb. Combining Weight, 207. (Not officinal.) 

1. PLUMBI OXIDUM.— Oxide of Lead. PbO. Synonym.— Litharge. 
Source. — Made by roasting lead in air. 

Characters. — Reddish-yellow powder or heavy scales. Insoluble in 
water, soluble in nitric and acetic acids. 

Impurities. — Copper, iron, carbonates. 

Preparations. 

1. Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis. Synonym. — Goulard's extract. 
Acetate of lead (170 parts) and oxide of lead (120 parts) are boiled to- 
gether in water, to make 1000 parts. A dense, clear, colorless liquid, 
sweet astringent taste, alkaline reaction. Sp gr. 1.228. 

2. Emplastrum Plumbi. — This is oleate of lead, and is some- 
times called diachylon plaster. Oxide of lead, 32, is boiled in water 
and olive oil, 60, (oleate of glyceryl). 3PbO -|- 3H 2 + 2(C 3 H 5 , 
3C 18 H 33 2 ) = 3(Pb 2 C 18 H 33 2 ), oleate of lead, + 2 (C 3 H 5 , 3 OH), gly- 
cerine. 



LEAD. 141 

Plumbi Oxidum or its Emplastrum is contained in Emplastrum 
Asafoetidae, Ferri, Galbani, Hydrargyri, Opii, Resinse, and Saponis. 

2. PLUMBI ACETAS.— Acetate of Lead. Pb(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 , 3H 2 G. 
Synonym. — Sugar of lead. 

Source. — Heat oxide of lead in acetic acid and water. PbO -f- 2HC 2 H 3 2 
-f- 2H 2 r=zPb(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 , 3H 2 0. The acetate of lead crystallizes on cooling. 

Characters. — White crystalline masses, slightly efflorescent and of a 
sweet taste. Solubility. — In 1.8 parts of water. 

Incompatibles. — Hard water, mineral acids and salts, alkalies, lime 
water, iodide of potassium, vegetable astringents, preparations of opium, and 
albuminous liquids. 

Impurity. — Carbonate of lead. 

Dose, yi, to 5 gr. 

Preparations made from the Acetate in which Lead exists as the SUBACE- 

TATE, Pb 2 0(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 - 
i. Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis. [See above.) 

2. Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus. Synonym. — Goulard's 
water. Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis, 3 ; distilled water, 97. 

3. Ceratum Plumbi Subacetatis. Synonym. — Goulard's ce- 
rate. Solution of subacetate of lead, 20; Camphor Cerate, 80. 

4. Linimentum Plumbi Subacetatis. — Solution of Plumbi Sub- 
acetatis, 40; Cotton Seed Oil, 60. 

3. PLUMBI CARBONAS.— Carbonate of Lead. A mixture of car- 
bonate and hydrate. 2(PbC0 3 ), Pb(OH) 2 . Synonym. — White-lead. 

Source. — Expose lead to the vapor of acetic acid and to air charged with 
carbonic acid. 6Pb + 6HC 2 H 3 2 + 30 2 + 2 C0 2 = 2(PbC0 3 ), Pb(OH) 2 + 
2H 2 + 3 (Pb2C 2 H 3 2 ). 

Characters. — A heavy, soft, white, opaque powder, insoluble in water. 

Impurity. — Lime. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Plumbi Carbonatis. — I to 9 of benzoinated lard. 

4. PLUMBI NITRAS.— Nitrate of Lead. Pb(N0 3 ) 2 . 
Source. — Dissolve lead in boiling nitric acid. 

Characters. — Colorless octahedra, of a sweetish taste. Soluble in water. 

5. PLUMBI IODIDUM.— Iodide of Lead. Pbl 2 . 

Source. — Mix solutions of nitrate of lead and iodide of potassium and 
dry the precipitate. 

Characters. — Bright, citron-yellow powder or crystalline scales: 

Preparation. 
Unguentum Plumbi Iodidi. — I to 9 of benzoinated lard. 



142 inorganic materia medica. 

Action of Lead Salts. 

External. — The action of lead salts on the unbroken skin, if 
they have any, is very slight ; but when applied to the abraded 
skin, to sores and to ulcers, they coagulate the albumen of the 
discharge, thus forming a protective coat ; they coagulate the al- 
bumen in the tissues themselves ; and they contract the small 
vessels ; for these three reasons they are powerfully astrin- 
gent. They also soothe pain, and are therefore excellent local 
sedatives. It is obvious that substances so markedly astringent 
will be haemostatics. The nitrate is slightly caustic, and any 
salt may be irritant and caustic if enough be used and it is suffi- 
ciently concentrated. 

Internal. — Lead salts act on mucous membranes precisely as 
on the broken skin, and are therefore powerfully astringent and 
haemostatic to all parts of the alimentary canal, from the mouth 
downwards. (For other actions see Toxicology.) 

Therapeutics of Lead Salts. 

External. — Lead salts are applied as lotions or ointments in 
many conditions for which an astringent, sedative effect is 
desired, as in weeping eczema and many varieties of ulceration. 
The lotions may be injected in vulvitis, leucorrhoea, gleet, and 
otorrhoea, but should not be applied for ulceration of the cornea, 
lest the white precipitate formed should lead to permanent opa- 
city. Their sedative effect is well seen in their use in pruritus, 
but of course the cause of the itching should, if possible, be re- 
moved. The Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis is rarely used, as it is 
strong enough to irritate ; the dilute form is that usually employed 
when a lotion is desired. It is often applied to bruises when the 
skin is unbroken, but it is doubtful if it is absorbed. The oint- 
ment is an excellent remedy, and a lotion of lead and opium is a 
favorite preparation. It may be made by mixing 5 gr. of extract 
of opium with ^j of Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus and 5j of 
water. Diachylon ointment consists of 60 parts of lead plaster, 
39 parts of olive oil and 1 part of oil of lavender melted together. 

Internal. — The chief uses of lead salts (the acetate is the only 



' LEAD POISONING. 143 

one given internally) are as astringents in severe diarrhoea, such 
as that of typhoid fever, and as haemostatics, as in gastric ulcer, 
or in haemorrhage from the intestine, especially if severe, as in 
typhoid fever or tuberculosis. For these purposes the Pilula 
Plumbi cum Opio (3 grains acetate of lead, 1 grain of opium) is very 
valuable, and suppositories containing the same amount of the in- 
gredients may be employed for rectal haemorrhage. Lead salts pro- 
duce marked constipation. Other preparations are generally pre- 
ferred, but the subacetate of lead may be used as a gargle when 
an astringent effect on the mouth or pharynx is desired. 

Toxicology. 

Acute Lead Poisoning. — As when applied externally, so when taken in- 
ternally, the salts of lead, if concentrated, are powerful irritants. Cases of acute 
poisoning are rare. The acetate is most frequently taken. There is a burning, 
sweetish taste in the mouth, thirst, vomiting, abdominal colic, and usually con- 
stipation, but if the bowels are open the fasces are black ; the skin is cold, and 
there is collapse. If the patient live long enough, cramps in the legs, giddiness, 
torpor, coma, and convulsions are present. Post mortem. — The stomach and 
intestines show signs of irritant poisoning. 

Treatnient. — Give emetics (see p. 77), or wash out the stomach. Give 
sulphate of sodium or magnesium to form an insoluble sulphate, and to open the 
bowels. If collapse is present, stimulants and warmth should be used. 

Chronic Lead Poisoning. — This is so common that it is fully described 
in text-books on medicine. It usually occurs in those who work in lead, be- 
cause they will not wash their hands before meals, and thus they impregnate 
their food. Those who work at white-lead factories are very liable to it. It 
has also occurred in many ways from the impregnation of food and water with 
lead, especially from the storage of soft water in leaden cisterns and pipes. 

Symptoms. — The earliest are constipation and intestinal cole. Lead is 
certainly absorbed, for it circulates in the blood and is excreted, chiefly by the 
kidneys. It is supposed to be taken up as an albuminate, but it cannot exist in 
the blood as such, for it would be precipitated by the alkali of that fluid. After 
absorption it diminishes the amount of haemoglobin and the number of red blood- 
corpuscles, and produces a sallow anaemia; it checks the separation of urates 
from the blood and their excretion by the kidneys, hence gout is very common 
in those poisoned by lead. As it circulates in the gums, and the lead-impreg- 
nated plasma bathes their epithelium, through which some of the sulphur in the 
food and in the tartar of the teeth has diffused, a sulphide of lead is precipitated 
in the gums, and forms the well-known very dark-blue line at the base of the 



144 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA^ 

teeth. For the same reason a blue line may occasionally be seen round the 
anus, and, after death, deposits of pigment in the intestines. Circulating in the 
nervous system, lead very often produces chronic inflammation of the peripheral 
nerves, especially those supplying the extensors of the hand, and hence wrist- 
drop is a common symptom; but any muscles, and sometimes almost all the 
muscles of the body, may be paralyzed from neuritis. It is noteworthy that the 
supinator longus usually escapes. The sensory fibres of the nerves are not often 
affected, hence pain and anaesthesia are rare ; but pains especially round the 
joints, may occur. In exceptional cases the anterior cornua of the spinal cord 
waste, and lead often affects the brain, causing saturnine lunacy, and also con- 
vulsions, known as saturnine epilepsy. Inflammation of the optic nerve, or 
optic neuritis, sometimes occurs, leading to blindness, which, however, may be 
present without any change in the nerve. The kidneys are often the seat of 
chronic inflammation ; whether this is due to the passage of the lead through 
them, or to the gout caused by the lead is an open question. The treatment 
consists chiefly in avoidance of the source of poisoning, the use of sulphuric 
acid lemonade, and in the administration of iodide of potassium; for although 
iodide of lead is insoluble, there is no doubt that the administration of iodide 
of potassium leads to an increased excretion of lead in the urine, probably from 
the formation of a complex, soluble compound of lead. It is said also to be 
excreted in the bile, sweat, and milk. For a clinical account of the symptoms 
and treatment a text-book of medicine must be consulted. 



II. ARGENTUM. 

Silver. Symbol, Ag. Combining weight, 108. (Not officinal.) 

i. ARGENTI NITRAS.— Nitrate of Silver. AgN0 3 . Synonym.— 
Lunar caustic. 

Source. — Dissolve silver in nitric acid with the aid of heat. Evaporate 
and crystallize. 

Characters. — Colorless, tabular, rhombic crystals. Solubility. — In 0.8 
of water. Should be kept in the dark, as light blackens it. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies and their carbonates, chlorides, acids (except 
nitric and acetic), iodide of potassium, solutions of arsenic, and astringent in- 
fusions. 

Impurities. — Other nitrates. 

Dose, ^ gr. in a pill. 

2. ARGENTI NITRAS DILUTUS.— Diluted Nitrate of Silver. 
Synonym. — Mitigated caustic. 

Source. — It is a mixture made by fusing together equal parts of nitrate of 
silver and of nitrate of potassium. The product is poured into moulds. 



SILVER SALTS. 1 45 

Characters. — White or grayish- white rods or cones. Freely soluble in 
water. 

3. ARGENTI NITRAS FUS US.— Moulded Nitrate of Silver. 
Source. — By melting nitrate of silver, 100; hydrochloric acid, 4; cool- 
ing in moulds. 

4. ARGENTI OXIDUM.— Oxide of Silver. Ag 2 0. 

Source. — Shake a solution of nitrate of silver with a solution of potash, 
and wash the precipitate. 2 AgN0 3 -f 2KOH 2 = Ag 2 + KN0 3 + H 2 0. 

Characters. — A brownish-black powder, feebly soluble in water. 

Incompatibles. — Chlorides and organic substances, especially creasote, 
for it rapidly oxidizes them and forms explosive compounds. 

Impurity. — Metallic silver. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. in a pill. 

5. ARGENTI CYANIDUM.— Cyanide of Silver. AgCN. 
Source. — From nitrate of silver, ferrocyanide of potassium, sulphuric 

acid and water by distillation. 

Characters. — A white powder, odorless and tasteless, and insoluble in 
water or alchol. 

Used to prepare extemporaneously acidum hydrocyanicum dilutum. 

6. ARGENTI IODIDUM.— Iodide of silver. Agl. 

Source. — From nitrate of silver and iodide of potassium, washing and 
drying the precipitate. 

Characters. — A heavy amorphous light yellowish powder, without odor 
and taste, insoluble in water and alcohol. 

Dose, X to x £ r - 

Uses. — The iodide of silver possesses the general properties of nitrate of 
silver. 

Action of Silver Salts. 

External. — The action of silver salts is very like that of lead 
salts, but they are more powerful. Therefore the nitrate of silver 
is much used as a caustic, but it does not act deeply; it is con- 
sequently an admirable agent when we wish a limited caustic 
action on any particular part. Lotions of it may be used as 
astringents, but they are not so useful as lead lotions, for they 
are more irritating and cause pain. Silver salts, like lead salts, 
are haemostatic, acting in precisely the same way. Weak solu- 
tions of the nitrate stimulate to healthier action indolent ulcers 
and other inflamed surfaces. 

I 3 



I46 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Internal. — Silver salts, when locally applied to the mucous 
membrane of the mouth, act as on the abraded skin. In the 
stomach the nitrate is decomposed, we do not know what com- 
pound is formed, but it is said to have no astringent action. 
Silver is absorbed from the alimentary tract, for its long-continued 
use leads to a bluish-slate color of the skin. Very little is known 
about its further action. In acute poisoning nervous symptoms, 
as convulsions, are met with ; in the chronic form there is loss of 
appetite, impaired nutrition, albuminuria, rapid irregular action 
of the heart, and, after death, general fatty degeneration. Some 
is passed in the faeces as the sulphide. 

Therapeutics of Silver Salts. 

External. — Nitrate of silver is much used because it is, from 
its limited action, one of the best caustics, and may be employed 
to destroy warts and exuberant granulations, or to apply to bites ; 
but it must be remembered that it is of no use when an extensive or 
deep action is required. Because of its combination of an irritant 
stimulating effect with an astringent influence, lotions of it, of 
generally about 5 gr. to the fluid ounce of water are of much 
benefit when applied as a paint to weak ulcers, to bedsores, to the 
affected parts in chronic pharyngitis or laryngitis, or as an injec- 
tion in gleet or inflammation of the cervix uteri. Weaker solutions 
(2 gr. to 5 j) are employed for granular lids and various forms of 
ophthalmia. Solutions of the nitrate will sometimes relieve pru- 
ritus, and may be applied to the red skin of a threatening bed- 
sore; very strong solutions have been recommended as a local 
application in erysipelas. Tinea tarsi is often treated by the 
application of solid nitrate of silver, and ulcers of the mouth and 
other parts may be touched with it. It is an excellent haemostatic 
for leech-bites. It is also applied to smallpox vesicles to prevent 
pitting, to boils, and to the uterus in chronic cervical catarrh. 

Internal. — Silver salts are not much used internally, and 
their continuous employment is objectionable on account of the 
discoloration of the skin produced. They were formerly often 
given in nervous diseases, but there is no evidence that they did 



ZINC SALTS. I47 

any good. Although it is said that the compound of silver formed 
in the stomach is non-astringent, nitrate of silver will certainly 
check severe diarrhoea, especially that of children. Sixty grains 
of nitrate of silver dissolved in three pints of tepid water, and 
injected high up the rectum, have been used with great benefit in 
dysentery. 

III. ZINCUM. 
Zinc. Symbol, Zn. Combining weight, 65. (Officinal.) 

Source. — Roast the native sulphide or carbonate of zinc, and reduce the 
resulting oxide with charcoal. 

Characters. — A bluish-white metal in the form of thin sheets, or 
irregular, granulated pieces. 

2. ZINCI CHLORIDUM.— Chloride of Zinc. ZnCl 2 . 

Source. — Dissolve zinc in hydrochloric acid by boiling. The solution 
contains the chloride of zinc, with chlorides of iron and lead as impurities. 
These are precipitated by adding first nitric acid, then carbonate of zinc. Filter 
and finally evaporate. 

Characters. — A white crystalline powder, or white opaque pieces, very 
deliquescent and caustic. Solubility. — Freely soluble in alcohol, water, and 
ether. 

Impurities. — Iron, calcium, and sulphates. 

3. LIQUOR ZINCI CHLORIDI. 

Source. — Prepared as above, but with the addition in water. 
Characters. — A colorless fluid of a sweetish taste, sp. gr. 1.555. 
Contains 24 parts chloride of zinc to 1 000 of water. 

Action of Chloride of Zinc. 

External. — It is very caustic, penetrating deeply, and 
limited in its effect to the seat of application. It is strongly 
antiseptic, and a solution of it of sp. gr. 2.0, known as Sir 
Wm. Burnett's fluid, is used as a domestic antiseptic. 

Internal, see Toxicology. 

Therapeutics of Chloride of Zinc 

External. — It is used as a powerful caustic, and is often 
made into sticks with plaster of Paris to destroy warts, naevi, 
condylomata, lupoid patches, &c. For the same purposes it may 



148 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

be made into a paste with equal parts of starch or flour. Either 
the liquor, or Burnett's fluid, may be employed to wash out bed- 
pans, closets, &c, but chloride of zinc is not so commonly used 
as other antiseptics. It is not given internally. 

Toxicology. 

Chloride of zinc is a corrosive irritant poison, causing a sensation of burn- 
ing in the mouth and throat, abdominal pain, vomiting — the vomit containing 
blood, mucus, and shreds of mucous membrane, — violent purging, and collapse. 
Post mortem. — The appearances are those produced by an acute irritant. 

Treatment. — Wash out the stomach, or give emetics (see p. 77), and then 
demulcents [see also p. 54.). 

4. ZINCI SULPHAS.— Sulphate of zinc. ZnS0 4 ,7H 2 0. 

Source. — Made with zinc and sulphuric acid as the chloride was made 
from hydrochloric acid, and with the same precautions for removing impurities. 

Characters. — Small, colorless, right-rhombic prisms, or acicular needles, 
very like sulphate of magnesium, but having a metallic taste. Solubility. — In 
0.6 of water. 

Impurities. — Lead, iron, copper, arsenic. 

Incompatibles.— Alkalies and other carbonates, lime water, acetate of 
lead, nitrate of silver, astringent vegetable infusions or decoctions, and milk. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. (tonic), 10 to 30 gr. (emetic). 

5. ZINCI CARBONAS PR2ECIPITATUS.— Precipitated carbo- 
nate of zinc. (ZnC0 3 ) 2 3Zn(HO) 2 . 

Source. — Boil together solutions of sulphate of zinc and carbonate of 
sodium. 3ZnS0 4 -4-2H 2 0+3Na 2 C0 3 =(ZnC0 3 ) 2 3Zn(HOj 2 4-2C0 2 -|-3Na 2 S0 4 . 
Dry the precipitated zinc salt. 

Characters. — A white, impalpable, tasteless powder, insoluble in water. 
Similar in constitution to carbonate of magnesium. 

Impurities. — Sulphates, chlorides, copper. 

Rarely used except to make the oxide and the acetate. 

6. ZINCI OXIDUM.— Oxide of zinc. ZnO. 

Source. — Heat the carbonate to redness in a crucible. 2 (ZnC0 3 2Zn(HO) 2 , 
= 3 ZnO+ 3 H 2 0+C0 2 . 

Characters. — A soft, nearly white, tasteless powder, insoluble in water. 
Impurities. — The carbonate and its impurities. 
Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Preparation. 
Unguentum Zinci Oxidi. — Oxide of zinc, 20; benzoinated 
lard, 80. 



ZINC SALTS. 149 

7. ZINCI ACETAS.— \cetate of Zinc. Zn(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 ,3H 2 0. 
Source. — Dissolve the carbonate of zinc in acetic acid and water, and 

boil. ZnC0 8 (Zn2(HO) 2 ,H 2 0+6C a H 4 2 =3Zn(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 +6H 2 0+C0 2 . Ace- 
tate of zinc crystallizes out. 

Characters. — Thin, translucent, colorless, six-sided tablets or scales, 
with a pearly lustre and a sharp taste. Solubility. — In 3 parts of water. 

Impurities. — Those of the carbonate. 

Incompatibles. — The same as of the sulphate. 

Dose, J4 to 2 gr. (tonic). 

8. ZINCI BROMIDUM. See Bromine. 

9. ZINCI IODIDUM. Iodide of Zinc. Znl 2 . 
Source. — From heating zinc and iodine. 

Characters. — A white granular powder, very deliquescent, odorless, 
having a sharp saline and metallic taste and an acid reaction. Very soluble 
in water and alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

Uses. 

Iodide of Zinc has been proposed as an alterative; but it. has 
failed to come into general use. 

10. ZINCI VALERIANAS. See Valeriana. 

11. ZINCI PHOSPHIDUM. See Phosphorus. 

Action of the Sulphate, Carbonate, Oxide and Acetate 

of Zinc. 

External. — These salts when applied to the broken skin or an 
ulcerated surface, are all astringents, acting by precipitating 
the albumen in the discharge and also that in the tissues. Thus 
they resemble lead and silver salts, but as a whole they are less 
powerfully astringent. The most active of them are the sulphate 
and acetate, whilst the carbonate and oxide are very weak. All 
these zinc salts are mild haemostatics. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — They all have an astringent 
effect on the gastric and intestinal mucous membranes. The 
sulphate, and to a less degree the carbonate, in doses of about 
20 grains are prompt emetics. They act directly on the stom- 
ach, and have the advantage of producing very little depression. 

Remote effects. — Nothing is known about the remote action of 
zinc salts nor do we know how they act on the blood. It has 



150 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

been stated that they are depressant to the nervous system as a 
whole, and that they act as remote astringents, and will therefore 
arrest haemorrhage from the uterus, kidney, etc., but this state- 
ment is probably incorrect, 

Therapeutics of the Sulphate, Carbonate, Oxide, and 

Acetate of Zinc. 

External. — A solution of the sulphate, generally about 2 gr. 
to ±j, usually colored red with compound tincture of lavender, and 
then called Lotio Rubra, is very often applied for its astringent 
effect to all sorts of raw surfaces and ulcers, and as an injection in 
gonorrhoea, leucorrhoea, vulvitis, or otitis. Plain solutions of this 
strength may be applied to the eye for conjunctivitis. The oxide 
and carbonate, either dusted on the part or used as an ointment, are 
in constant use for cases in which only a mild astringent effect is 
desirable. An ointment, often known as Unguentum Metallorum, 
consists of equal parts of ointments of oxide of zinc, acetate of 
lead, and dilute nitrate of mercury. This is a very good appli- 
cation for many varieties of eczema, sores, and ulcers. 

Internal. — Alimentary canaL — On account of their disagree- 
able taste, solutions of zinc salts are not used as astringent to the 
mouth. Small doses of the oxide or sulphate may be given as 
astringents in diarrhoea. The sulphate is a very good emetic for 
cases of poisoning, for it acts promptly without causing much 
nausea and hardly any depression. It is occasionally given as an 
emetic to children suffering from laryngitis or bronchitis. 

Remote effects. Because it is believed to act as a depressant to 
the nervous system, sulphate of zinc has been given in hysteria, 
epilepsy, whooping-cough, and chorea in doses of 1 to 3 grains 
thrice a day. Its use is not generally limited to chorea, but 
often its effect is so slow that it is difficult to prove that the 
patient would not have improved quite as rapidly without any 
drug. It is usually said to be a tonic, but there is no trustworthy 
evidence for this statement. The oxide given internally will 
occasionally check the night-sweats of phthisis, but it is quite likely 
to interfere with the digestion. 



SULPHATE OF COPPER. 151 

IV. CUPRUM. 

Copper. Symbol, Cu. Combining weight, 63 5. (Not officinal.) 

1. CUPRI SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Copper. CuSO^H.p. Syno- 
nyms. — Blue vitriol, Bluestone. 

Source.— Heat copper and sulphuric acid together, and dissolve the solu- 
ble product in hot water and evaporate. 

Characters. — Deep-blue triclinic crystals, efflorescent and odorless. 
Taste, styptic. Solubility. — I in 3 of water. Solution strongly acid. 

Impurity. — Iron. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies and their carbonates, lime water, mineral salts 
(except sulphates), iodides, and most vegetable astringents. 

Dose, y$ to y 2 gr. (astringent), 2 to 20 gr. (emetic). 

2. CUPRI ACETAS.— Acetate of Copper. Cu(C 2 H 3 2 ) 2 ,3H 2 0. 
Source. — Dissolve copper in dilute acetic acid and evaporate. 
Characters. — Deep, blue-green, oblique rhombic prisms. Soluble in 15 

parts of water. 

Dose, y % to X & r - 

Action of Salts of Copper. 

External. —In the solid form these salts are, when applied 
to raw surfaces, powerful caustics. In dilute solutions they are 
astringent, acting like sulphate of zinc, but more powerfully. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Here also, if very concen- 
trated or given in large doses, copper salts are acute caustic irri- 
tants, but poisoning by them is very rare. In medicinal doses 
they are strongly astringent. Five to ten grains of the sulphate 
form a powerful emetic, acting directly on the stomach. As it is 
more irritating than sulphate of zinc it acts more readily, but it 
has the disadvantage that, if it fails to act, the stomach must be 
promptly emptied by some other means, for if not the sulphate 
of copper will cause inflammation of it. 

Remote effects. — Copper salts are slowly absorbed, and copper 
is chiefly re-excreted by the liver in the bile. Nothing is known 
of its further effects. 

Therapeutics of Salts of Copper. 
External. — The sulphate is applied as a caustic to reduce 
exuberant granulations, and is used for tinea tarsi, being rubbed 



152 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

on the edges of the lids ; as it is milder than nitrate of silver, it 
causes less pain. The " lapis dwinus," which is often used for 
this last purpose, consists of sulphate of copper 3 oz.f nitrate of 
potassium 3 oz., alum 3 oz., camphor 60 gr. The first three are 
fused together. The camphor is added, and the mass is cast into 
cylindrical moulds. Lotions of sulphate of copper, usually 
about 2 gr. to 5j, may be applied as astringents for just the same 
purposes as lotions of sulphate of zinc ; but it must be remem- 
bered that they are more powerful. This is the usual strength 
for solutions which are to be dropped into the eye. Rather 
stronger solutions are mild haemostatics. 

Internal. — In small doses sulphate of copper is valuable for 
severe diarrhoea; usually it is given by the mouth in the form of 
a pill, but it may be given as a rectal injection. It is a rapid 
emetic, and may be employed in laryngitis and bronchitis in chil- 
dren, and in cases of narcotic poisoning, for which it is useful on 
account of its prompt action. It is particularly serviceable in 
phosphorus poisoning, for if it is used, copper is deposited on the 
phosphorus, rendering it inert. It is usual to give three or four 
grains of the sulphate in water every few minutes till vomiting 
takes place. After emetic doses of sulphate of copper, there is 
generally only one act of vomiting, but by that the stomach is 
completely emptied. Very little is known about the remote action 
of salts of copper, but it is stated that the sulphate will cure chlo- 
rosis. 

V. BISMUTHUM. 

Bismuth. Symbol, Bi. Combining weight, 210. (Not officinal.) 

1. BISMUTHISUBCARBONAS.— Subcarbonate of Bismuth. 2(Bi 
0)(C0 3 ),H 2 0. 

Source. — Dissolve purified bismuth in nitric acid and water, and add a solu- 
tion of carbonate of ammonium. 4Bi(N0 3 ) 3 -|-4N3H 11 C 2 5 4-2H 2 0=2Bi 2 2 C03 
-j-6C0 2 -f-i2NH 4 N0 3 . The precipitated carbonate is separated by filtration. 

Characters. — A heavy white or yellowish-white powder, insoluble in 
water. 

Impurities. — As of the subnitrate. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 



SALTS OF BISMUTH. 153 

2. BISMUTHI SUBNITRAS.— Subnitrate of Bismuth. BiONO s , 
H 2 0. 

Source. — Dissolve purified bismuth in nitric acid and water, concentrate 
by evaporation, pour in more water, and stir thoroughly, wash and dry the 
precipitated subnitrate. Bi(N0 8 ) 8 +H a O=BiON0 3 +2HN0 3 . 

Characters. — A heavy white powder, odorless, and almost tasteless. 
Insoluble in water, but soluble in dilute nitric acid. 

Impurities. — Lead, arsenic, chlorides, nitrates. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

3. BISMUTHI CITRAS.— Citrate of Bismuth BiC 6 H 5 7 . 
Source — Boil subnitrate of bismuth in a solution of citric acid. Then 

precipitate with a solution of sodium, boil, wash, and dry. BiN0 3 -f-H 3 C 6 H 5 
7 H a O=BiC 6 H 5 O t +N0 8 +H 2 0. 

Characters. — A white, amorphous powder. Insoluble in water, soluble 
in ammonia. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

4. BISMUTHI ET AMMONII CITRAS. —Citrate of Bismuth 
and Ammonium. 

Source. — Mix citrate of bismuth with distilled water to make a paste, add 
water of ammonia to make a solution, filter, evaporate, and dry on plates of glass. 

Characters. — Small, shining, translucent scales, of a slightly acidulous 
taste, freely soluble in water. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 

Action of Salts of Bismuth. 

External. — Salts of bismuth have no action on the unbroken 
skin. Dusted on a raw surface they form a protecting coat, and 
are very mildly astringent. 

Internal. — It was formerly believed that the subnitrate and 
subcarbonate of bismuth were severe gastro-intestinal irritants, 
but this effect was due to the arsenic with which so many speci- 
mens of bismuth salts were contaminated. When pure, it is 
probable that these salts, like any bland heavy powder, act chiefly 
as protectives to the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane. They 
have a slightly astringent action. It is stated that they are 
slowly absorbed and excreted chiefly in the urine, but the whole 
subject requires fresh investigation. Nothing is known of any 
remote effects. Bismuth leaves the rectum as the sulphide, and 
colors the faeces black. 
14 



154 inorganic materia medica. 

Therapeutics of Salts on Bismuth. 

External. — Salts of bismuth may be dusted on sores as pro- 
tectees and mild astringents. The following is a good bismuth 
ointment: — Oxide of bismuth i part, and oleic acid 8 parts, 
stirred in with 3 parts of white wax liquefied by heat, with 9 parts 
of soft paraffin. The subnitrate is sometimes snuffed up the nose 
during a cold. 

Internal. — The subnitrate and the subcarbonate are chiefly 
employed, and they seem to be more efficient than the soluble 
preparations. They must be suspended in mucilage ; given thus 
they are more efficacious than as a lozenge. It is not known how 
the effect is produced, but either of these salts is remarkably effi- 
cient in removing gastric pain, whether due to ulcer or to gas- 
tritis, or even when no cause can be detected. The usual dose is 
10 to 20 gr. Both these drugs will often stop vomiting due to 
gastritis, gastric ulcer, chloroform, pregnancy, or indeed any other 
cause. For their astringent action they are given in diarrhoea, 
doses of 60 gr. being administered without any ill effect. They 
appear sometimes to check the severe diarrhoea of tuberculous 
ulceration of the bowel. Their efficacy as gastric anodynes and 
gastric astringents is much increased by combination with a little 
morphine, and if given as gastric sedatives the addition of bicar- 
bonate of sodium as well as the morphine is an advantage. In 
such a prescription the subcarbonate of bismuth is preferable to 
the subnitrate, for the latter may act on the bicarbonate of 
sodium and lead to the production of sufficient carbonic acid to 
drive the cork out of the bottle. 



GROUP V. 

Iron and Manganese. 

These two drugs will cure many forms of anaemia, and probably their 
physiological action is very similar. 

I. IRON. 

Ferrum. Symbol, Fe. Combining weight, 55.9. (Officinal.) 

1. FERRUM. — Metallic Iron in form of fine, bright and non-elastic wire. 

Metallic iron is pharmacopceial in two forms, viz. this and reduced iron. 



IRON. 155 

2. FERRUM REDUCTUM.- Reduced Iron. Synonym. — Que- 
venne's Iron. Metallic iron with a variable amount of oxide. 

Source. — Subcarbonate of iron is washed thoroughly, until all traces of 
sulphate of sodium are removed ; then hydrogen gas is passed over it. 

Characters — A grayish-black powder, strongly attracted by the magnet. 

Impurity. — Sulphur. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

The following (viz., the sulphate, the carbonate, the lactate, the oxalate, 
the bromide, and the iodide) are ferrous salts, that is to say, salts of the lower 
oxide of iron, FeO. 

3. FERRI SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Iron. FeS0 4 , 7H 2 0. 
Source. — Iron wire is dissolved by boiling in sulphuric acid and water. 

The sulphate is crystallized out. 

Characters. — Pale, bluish-green, monoclinic prisms, with a styptic taste. 
Solubility. — I in 1 8 of water. 

Impurities. — Per-salts of iron, copper. 

Dose, l / z to 2 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Mistura Ferri Composita. Synonym. — Griffith's mixture. 
Sulphate of iron, 6 parts; carbonate of potassium, 8 parts; myrrh, 18 
parts; sugar, 18 parts; spirit of lavender, 50 parts; rose water, 900 
parts. It is a dark green mixture containing the carbonate of iron, for 
the sulphate of iron and the carbonate of potassium react on each other. 

Dose, 2 to 4 fl. dr. 

2. Pilulse Ferri Compositse. Compound Pills of Iron. Synonym. 
— Griffith's Pills. Sulphate of iron, 75 grains; carbonate of sodium, 75 
grains; myrrh, 150 grains; syrup, a sufficient quantity. Each contains 
^ gr. ferrous carbonate, the same change taking place as in Mistura 
Ferri Composita. 

Dose, 1 to 6. 

4. FERRI SULPHAS EXSICCATUS.— Dried Sulphate of Iron. 
FeS0 4 ,H 2 0. 

Source. — Heat the sulphate to 149° F. It loses six-sevenths of its water 
of crystallization. 

Characters. — A grayish white powder. 61 parts = 100 parts of the 
sulphate. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. 

Preparation. 

Pilulae Aloes et Ferri. See Aloes. 

5. FERRI SULPHAS PRjECIPITATUS.— Precipitated Sulphate 
of Iron. FeS0 4 ,7H 2 0. 



I56 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Source. — Dissolve sulphate of iron in sulphuric acid and water, pour into 
an equal volume of alcohol, and filter, wash and dry the precipitate. 

Characters. — Pale, bluish-green, crystalline powder. Solubility .—\ in 
18 of water. 

Impurities. — The same as of the sulphate. 

Dose, ]/ z to 2 gr. 

6. FERRI CARBON AS SACCHARATUS. — A powder contain- 
ing 15 per cent, of ferrous carbonate FeC0 3 , made from sulphate of iron, bicar- 
bonate of sodium, and sugar. 

Characters. — Greenish-gray powder of a sweetish taste. It is a very 
unstable compound, being easily oxidized. The sugar in this preparation 
forms a coating, and prevents further oxidization. 

Impurities. — Sulphate of sodium, excess of oxide of iron. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

7. MASSA FERRI CARBONATIS.— Mass of Carbonate of Iron. 
Synonym. — Vallet's Mass. Sulphate of iron, 100; carbonate of sodium, no; 
clarified honey, 38 ; sugar, 25 ; syrup, distilled water, etc. to 1 00. By solution, 
precipitation and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

8. SYRUPUS FERRI BROMIDI. Syrup of Bromide of Iron. A 
syrupy liquid containing 10 per cent, of ferrous bromide. Iron, 30; bromine, 
75; sugar, 600; distilled water, etc. to 1000. 

Characters. — A transparent, pale-green liquid, odorless, having a sweet, 
strongly ferruginous taste and a neutral reaction. 
Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

9. FERRI IODIDUM SACCHARATUM.— Saccharated Iodide of 
Iron. 

Source. — From iron, 6; iodine, 17; distilled water, 20; sugar of milk, 
80. By filtration and evaporation. 

Characters. — A yellowish-white powder, very hygroscopic, odorless, 
having a sweetish, ferruginous taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Soluble in 
7 parts of water; only partially soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

10. SYRUPUS FERRI IODIDI. Syrup of Iodide of Iron. A syr- 
upy liquid containing 10 per cent, of ferrous iodide. Iron, 25; iodine, 82; 
sugar, 600; distilled water to 1000. 

Characters. — A transparent, pale-green liquid, odorless, having a sweet, 
strongly ferruginous taste and a neutral reaction. 
Dose, 5 to 30 m. 



IRON. 157 

11. PILUL/E FERRI IOD ID I.— Triturate reduced iron 60, with 
iodine 80, and water, add glycyrrhiza 50, sugar 50, extract of glycyrrhiza 12, 
and acacia 12 grs., and evaporate to make 100 pills. To be preserved from 
light and air as much as possible, as they do not keep well. 

Dose, 1 to 2 pills. 

12. FERRI LACTAS.— Lactate of Iron. Fe(C 3 H 5 3 ) 2 ,3H 2 0. 
Source. — -By crystallization from a solution of lactic acid and iron in dis- 
tilled water. 

Characters. — Pale greenish-white, crystalline crusts or grains, odorless, 
having a mild, sweetish ferruginous taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Soluble 
in 40 parts of water, and almost insoluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Lactate of iron is used in Syrupus Hypophosphitum cum Ferro. 

13. FERRI OXALAS.— Oxalate of Iron. FeC 2 4 ,H 2 0. 

Source. — From sulphate of iron, oxalic acid dissolved in distilled water, 
the precipitate dried by gentle heat. 

Characters. — A pale-yellow, crystalline powder, odorless, and nearly 
tasteless, only slightly soluble in cold or hot water. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

The following, (viz., the chloride, the sulphate, the nitrate, the valerianate, 
the acetate, the hypophosphite, the hydrated oxide and the ammonio-sulphate) 
are ferric salts ; they are compounds of the higher oxide of iron, Fe 2 3 . Most 
are officinal in the form of liquors. 

14. FERRI CHLORIDUM.— Chloride of Iron. Fe 2 Cl 6 , I2H 2 0. 
Source. — Iron, 15 ; hydrochloric acid, 86. By solution in water with 

heat, filtration, addition of nitric acid, and crystallization. 

Characters — Orange-yellow, crystalline pieces, very deliquescent, odor- 
less or having a faint odor of hydrochloric acid. A strongly styptic taste and 
an acid reaction. Freely soluble in water, alcohol and ether. 

15. LIQUOR FERRI CHLORIDL— Solution of Chloride of Iron. 
Fe 2 Cl 6 . 

Source. — Dissolve iron wire in hydrochloric acid and water. Fe-f-2HCl 
=FeCl 2 -f-H.j. Nitric acid is also added, and thus the ferrous is converted into 
ferric chloride. 6FeCl 2 +6HCl- r -2HN0 3 =3Fe 2 Cl 6 +4H 2 0+2NO. 

Characters. — A reddish-brown liquid, usually containing some free 
hydrochloric acid. • 

Impurities. — Ferrous salts. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 



158 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparation. 

1. Tinctura Ferri Chloridi. — The solution of chloride of iron, 
35 ; alcohol, 65. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

16. MISTURA FERRI ET AMMONII ACETATIS. Mixture 
of Acetate of Iron and Ammonia. Synonyms. — Basham's Mixture. Tincture 
of chloride of iron, 2 ; diluted acetic acid, 3 ; solution of acetate of ammonia, 
20; elixir of orange, IO; syrup, 15; water, 50. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

17. LIQUOR FERRI TERSULPHATIS.— Solution of tersulphate 
of iron. Fe 2 ,3S0 4 . 

Source. — A hot solution of sulphate of iron in sulphuric acid" and water 
is boiled with nitric acid and water. 6FeS0 4 +3H 2 S0 4 - r -2HN0 3 =3(Fe 2 ,3S0 4 ) 
+4H 2 0+2NO. 

Characters. — A dark reddish-brown, very astringent solution, miscible 
with water. 

18. LIQUOR FERRI N I TR ATI S. —Solution of nitrate of iron. 
Fe 2 ,6(N0 3 ). 

Source. — Dissolve tersulphate of iron in nitric acid and water of ammonia. 
Characters. — A clear, amber- colored, reddish liquid, astringent. Sp. 
gr. 1.050. 

Impurities. — Ferrous salts. 
Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

19. LIQUOR FERRI SUBSULPHATIS.— Solution of Subsulphate 
of iron. Synonym. — Monsel's solution. 

An aqueous solution of Basic Ferric Sulphate. Fe 4 0(S0 4 ) 5 . Contains 
437 per cent, of the salt. 

Sulphate of iron, 77 ; sulphuric acid, 7 ; nitric acid, distilled water to 114. 

Characters. — A dark, reddish-brown, almost syrupy liquid, odorless, 
having an extremely astringent taste, and an acid reaction. Sp. gr. 1*555. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

20. LIQUOR FERRI ACETATIS.— Solution of Acetate of Iron. 
Fe 2 6(C 2 H 3 2 ). 

Source. — The tersulphate of iron is precipitated with a dilute solution of 
ammonia. Fe 2 ,3S0 4 +6NH 4 ,HO=Fe 2 ,6HO+3(NH 4 ) 2 S0 4 . The resulting 
hydrate is dissolved in glacial acetic acid. Fe 2 6H04-6HC 2 H 3 2 =Fe 2 ,6(C 2 H 3 
2 )+6H 2 0. 

Characters. — A deep, red-brown, transparent fluid, miscible with water, 
or alcohol. Sp. gr. 1.260. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 



IRON. 159 

Preparation. 

1. Tinctura Ferri Acetatis. — The solution of acetate of iron, 50; 
acetic ether, 20; alcohol, 30. 
Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

21. FERRI OXIDUM HYDRATUM.— Hydrated Oxide of iron. 
Fe 2 (HO) 6 . 

Source. — Add to a solution of the tersulphate of iron, water of ammonia. 
The precipitate is the hydrate of iron. 

Characters. — A reddish-brown magma. 
Dose, 1 to 4 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Emplastrum Ferri. Synonym. — Strengthening plaster. Hy- 
drated oxide of iron, 10 ; Burgundy pitch, 10 ; lead plaster, 70 ; Canada 
turpentine, 10. 

2. Trochisci Ferri. — Each contains 5 grains. 
Dose, 1 to 2. 

22. FERRI OXIDUM HYDRATUM CUM MAGNESIA.— 

Hydrated Oxide of Iron with Magnesia. Solution of tersulphate of iron, 
1000; add to the iron, water, 2000 ; magnesia, 150; add water to the magnesia, 
850. Keep in separate bottles. 

Uses. — For arsenical poisoning, for which it should be mixed by adding 
the magnesia mixture gradually to the iron solution, and shaking until a homo- 
geneous mass results. It should be given in large doses and frequently 
repeated. 

23. FERRI ET AMMONII SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Iron and 

Ammonia. Fe 2 ( NH 4 ) 2 (S0^ 4 ,24H 2 0. 

Source. — From crystallization of sulphate of ammonia in a solution of 
tersulphate of iron. 

Characters. — Pale, violet, octahedral crystals, efflorescent, odorless, 
having an acid, styptic taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Soluble in 3 parts of 
water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

24. FERRI HYPOPHOSPHIS.— Hypophosphite of Iron. Fe 2 (H 2 

P0 2 ) 6 . 

Source. — From the action of hypophosphorous acid upon carbonate of iron. 

Characters — A white or grayish- white powder, odorless, and nearly 
tasteless, only slightly soluble in water. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

See Phosphorus. 



l6o INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

25. FERRI VALERIANAS. See Valeriana. 

The following are scale preparations of iron, so called because they are 
dried to form scales. They are not well-defined chemical compounds. The 
base of them all is ferric hydrate. There are seven — the tartrate of iron and 
potash, the phosphate, the pyro-phosphate, the citrate, the ammonio-citrate, 
and the citrate of iron and quinine, and of iron and strychnine. 

26. FERRI PHOSPHAS.— Phosphate of Iron. It consists of ferric 
phosphate, with some oxides. 

Source. — Dissolve citrate of iron in distilled water, add phosphate of 
sodium. Evaporate and dry on glass. 

Characters. — Bright green, transparent scales, soluble in water. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Preparations. 

Syrupus Ferri, Quininae et Strychninse Phosphatum. Dis- 
solve phosphate of iron in distilled water, and add phosphoric acid, 
quinine and strychnine with the sugar and distilled water. 

Dose, yi to 1 fl. dr. 

27. FERRI ET POTASSII T A RTR AS— Tartrate of Iron and 
Potassium. 

Source. — Add the solution of tersulphate of iron to water of ammonia, 
filter, add water, heat with bitartrate of potassium, and filter. Dry the precipi- 
tate on glass. 

Characters. — Transparent, garnet-red scales, slightly sweetish and as- 
tringent. Solubility. — Very soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Impurities. — Ammonia and ferrous salts. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

28. FERRI ET AMMONII CI TR AS —Citrate of Iron and Am- 
monium. 

Source. — From evaporation of a solution of citrate of iron with water of 
ammonia. 

Characters. — Red scales like the tartrate of iron and potassium, but not 
so deep in color. Solubility. — Very soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol. 
Impurities. — Tartrates and alkaline salts. 
Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Preparation. 

Vinum Ferri Citratis.— Citrate of iron and ammonium, 4; tinct- 
ure of sweet orange peel, 12; syrup, 12; strong white wine, 72. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

29. FERRI CITRAS.— Citrate of Iron. Fe 2 (C 6 H 5 7 ) 2 ,6H 2 0. 
Source. — By evaporation of a solution of citrate of iron. 



IRON. l6l 

Characters. — Transparent, garnet-red scales, odorless, having a faint, 
ferruginous taste, and an acid reaction. Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol. 
Dose, i to 5 gr. 
To make ferri et quininse citratis. 

30. LIQUOR FERRI CITRATIS.— Solution of Citrate of Iron. 
An aqueous solution of ferric citrate. Contains about 35*5 per cent, of 

the anhydrous salt. 

wSolution of tersulphate of iron, 105; citric acid, 30; water of ammonia, 
84; water to 100. 

Characters. — A dark brown liquid, odorless, having a slightly ferruginous 
taste, and an acid reaction. Sp. gr. 1.260. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

31. FERRI ET STRYCHNINE CITRAS.— Citrate of iron and 
strychnine. 

Source. — Made like Ferri et Ammonii Citras, one per cent, of strychnine 
being added. 

Characters. — Deliquescent, greenish-red scales. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

Preparation. 

Vinum Ferri Amarum. — Solution of citrate of iron and quiuine, 
8; tincture of sweet orange peel, 12; syrup, 36; stronger white 
wine, 44. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

32. FERRI ET QUININE CITRAS.— Citrate of Iron and Quinine. 
Source. — Made like Ferri et Ammonii Citras, freshly precipitated quinine 

being also dissolved in the citric acid solution. 

Characters. — Transparent, thin yellowish-brown scales of a bitter taste. 
Solubility. — Slowly in water. Contains 12 per cent, dry quinine. 

Impurities. — Alkaline salts and other alkaloids instead of quinine. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

33. LIQUOR FERRI ET QUININE CITRATIS.— Solution of 
Citrate of Iron and Quinine. 

Citrate of iron and ammonia, 65 ; quinine, 1 2 ; citric acid, 28 ; alcohol, 30 ; 
distilled water to 200. 

Characters.— A dark, greenish-yellow liquid, odorless, having a bitter 
and mildly ferruginous taste, and a slightly acid reaction. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

34. FERRI PYROPHOSPHAS.— Pyrophosphate of Iron. 
Source. — By solution of citrate of iron, 9; pyrophosphate of sodium, 10 ; 

in distilled water, 18; and evaporation. 



1 62 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Thin, apple-green, transparent scales, odorless, having an 
acidulous, slightly saline taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Freely soluble in 
water, insoluble in alcohol. 

Dose, i to 5 gr. 

Incompatibles of Iron Salts in General. — All substances containing 
tannic or gallic acid form an intense black with per-salts of iron. Preparations 
of iron are therefore incompatible with all vegetable astringent solutions, and the 
only infusions with which they can be prescribed are infusion of quassia and infu- 
sion of calumba. It is a common mistake to forget that because of its tannin, 
the tincture as well as the infusion of digitalis makes an inky mixture with iron 
preparations. Such a mixture may be clarified with a little dilute phosphoric 
acid, but after a few days a slight precipitate of phosphate of iron falls. Per- 
salts of iron render mucilage of acacia gelatinous. 

Alkalies and their carbonates, lime water, carbonate of calcium, magnesia 
and its carbonate give green precipitates with ferrous, and brown with ferric salts. 

Action of Iron and its Salts. 

External. — They have no action on the unbroken skin, but 
when applied locally to the abraded skin, sores, ulcers, and 
mucous membranes many of the salts of iron, especially the 
persalts, are powerful astringents, because they coagulate 
albuminous fluids, both those discharged from the surface and 
also those in the tissue itself. There is no direct effect on the 
walls of the vessels, but the contraction of the coagulated albu- 
men compresses them and diminishes their calibre. Partly for 
this reason, but still more because these salts of iron quickly 
cause the coagulation of blood, and the clot thus formed plugs 
the bleeding vessels, they are the most perfect local haemosta- 
tics we possess, and will often arrest very severe haemorrhage. 
The chloride, the sulphate, and the nitrate of iron are all very 
strongly astringent ; but the scale preparations, reduced iron, the 
carbonate, the hydrated oxide, the iodide, the phosphate and the 
acetate of iron are so very feebly astringent that they are never 
used as local applications ; in fact, to most persons they are 
non-astringent. Oxides of iron have the property of converting 
oxygen into ozone, and are therefore disinfectant. 

Internal. — Mouth. — Preparations of iron have a styptic 
taste, the teeth and tongue may be blackened when they are 



IRON. 163 

taken, owing to the formation of the sulphide of iron, the 
sulphur being derived from the food and the tartar on the teeth ; 
hence it is advisable to take iron preparations through a glass 
tube and immediately afterwards to brush the teeth. The free 
acid in the tincture of the chloride of iron will destroy the 
enamel of the teeth, even if diluted with eight parts of water. 
The astringent preparations have, when locally applied, the same 
action on the mucous membrane of the mouth as on the raw skin. 
Stomach. — Whatever form of iron is given by the mouth, it 
is converted in the stomach into ferric chloride, with probably 
a little ferrous chloride. Long experience has shown that ferric 
chloride is to the physician, a most valuable preparation of iron ; 
probably this is because it will not abstract hydrochloric acid 
from the gastric juice as is the case with all other preparations of 
iron. It is often stated that an albuminate of iron is formed in 
the stomach ; this is incorrect, and when the albuminate of iron 
is given by the mouth it will be converted into a chloride in the 
stomach. Although whatever form of iron is administered ferric 
chloride is formed in the stomach, the choice of the preparation 
is a matter of great importance, for if strongly acid salts are 
given, the acid set free after the formation of the chloride will 
act as a caustic, and damage the mucous membrane ; even the 
preparations of the chloride may do this for they often contain a 
considerable amount of free acid. These facts explain why iron pre- 
parations, especially the acid ones, so often cause headache, nausea, 
loss of appetite, and other systems of severe indigestion. We 
also learn why experience has taught that the sulphate, which is 
so often used, should be given in the form of a pill, for this, 
especially if coated, is not dissolved till the intestine is reached, 
and the acid is harmless in the alkaline solutions of that part of 
the alimentary canal. Further, we see why the preparations 
which are either not acid at all or only very slightly acid, such as 
the reduced iron, the hydrated oxide, the carbonate, and the scale 
preparations, do not as a rule cause indigestion, but it can also 
be said that they are sometimes not so efficient as the stronger 
preparations. However, this free acid may be neutralized by the 



164 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

addition of bicarbonate of sodium, so that the tincture in the 
chloride of iron will be acid only so far as the basic chloride of 
iron has an acid reaction, nor does this neutralization impair its 
therapeutic properties, for hydrochloric acid is added to it in the 
stomach. An effective preparation is now made, in which these 
disadvantages of the tincture of the chloride of iron are removed, 
which is known as Weld's syrup of the chloride of iron. The 
chloride of iron is very astringent, hence the astringent effect on 
the stomach of iron salts. The non-astringent preparations can 
only be astringent in proportion to the amount of ferric chloride 
formed from the gastric juice; but if large quantities of astringent 
preparations are given, the excess which is not decomposed by 
the gastric juice will add its astringency to that of the chloride 
formed in the stomach. 

Intestines. — On passing into the intestines, the contents of 
which are alkaline from carbonate of sodium, the ferric chloride 
becomes an oxide of iron, which remains in solution owing to 
the presence of organic substances ; the chloride is converted into 
ferrous carbonate, which is also soluble. Lower down in the in- 
testine, by the action of the sulphur compounds, the nascent hydro- 
gen, and other readily oxidizable products of decomposition there 
present, these compounds of iron are converted into the sulphide 
and tannate (the tannic acid being derived from the vegetables 
in the food), and as such are eliminated with the faeces, which 
are turned black. Large amounts of the astringent preparations 
have a constipating effect ; this may be owing to there being 
an excess of them, for the oxides and carbonates are non- 
astringent preparations. 

Absorption. — It was for a long time believed that iron, given 
as a drug, was absorbed as an alkaline albuminate and as a chlo- 
ride, but this is almost certainly erroneous. There is no proof 
that iron, when administered as any of the iron preparations 
used in medicine, is absorbed at all. Thus a dog was fed on 
a meat diet ; the amount of iron excreted in the urine was on the 
average 3.6 milligrammes a day Then for nine days 49 mgrms. 
of iron as sulphate were given daily ; for the first five subsequent 



IRON. 165 

days the excretion of iron in the urine did not increase, for the 
next six it increased by only two mgrms. a day, afterwards it 
returned to the normal amount ; so that with an increase of 441 
mgrms. of iron ingested only 1 2 mgrms. more than usual appeared 
in the urine. It is very likely that this s ight excess in excretion 
may have been due to the fact that the large amount of iron taken 
corroded the intestinal epithelium, which therefore allowed a 
little iron to be absorbed. This experiment appears to show that 
no appreciable amount of iron, given as a drug, is absorbed, but it 
is possible that it may have been locked up in the body, or elimi- 
nated by some other channel than the urine ; and of these suppo- 
sitions, the most likely is, that it was excreted from the blood into 
the intestine. It is often stated that the excretion of iron into 
the intestine takes place by the bile, but the most recent observa- 
tions of Bunge and Hamburger show that the bile contains the 
merest traces of iron. In favor of iron being excreted into the 
intestines by the intestinal and gastric juices is the fact that the 
faeces of a fasting dog contain iron, but it is very little, and it 
must be remembered that the epithelium of the intestine, which is 
constantly being shed, normally contains iron. There is little 
doubt but that iron salts injected into the blood are excreted into 
the intestine, but this injection causes symptoms of poisoning, 
such as reduced blood-pressure, gastro-intestinal irritation, and 
paralysis of the muscles, due to depression of the central nervous 
system. But as these symptoms never follow the administration 
of large amounts of iron salts by the mouth, it would appear that 
they are not absorbed, and this confirms the experiment already 
described. On the whole, therefore, although the question is not 
definitely settled, the balance of evidence is that iron salts given 
as drugs are not absorbed from the intestine. 

Blood. — It is often stated that the administration of iron 
causes, in healthy subjects, an increase in the number of red 
blood-corpuscles, but this is very doubtful. Probably in health 
it has little or no effect on the blood. 

In certain forms of anaemia (a condition in which the amount 
of haemoglobin and the number of corpuscles are diminished), 



1 66 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

especially in chlorosis, the administration of iron rapidly improves 
the blood in both respects. It is therefore said to be hsema- 
tinic ; and as an improvement in the quality of the blood leads 
to an improvement in the functions of all the organs of the body, 
iron is also called a tonic. Tonics are- drugs which indirectly 
improve the action of the several organs of the body ; usually 
they act by increasing the quality of blood or by aiding digestion, 
and thus rendering the digestion and absorption of the food 
more easy {see p. 103). We have seen that iron is probably not 
absorbed, and hence it is at first sight difficult to understand how 
it can benefit anaemia. But the proposition that iron salts cannot 
be absorbed only refers to inorganic salts. It is obvious that iron 
in some form must be absorbed, if not the chicken could not 
get it from the yolk, and the growing child could not increase 
the quantity of its blood proportionately to its growth. It is 
noticeable that our food, like yolk of egg, only contains complex 
organic compounds of iron. As these must be absorbed we may 
conclude that they are in some way or other protected from 
decomposition in the alimentary canal, for we have seen that in all 
probability the inorganic compounds which would result if they 
were decomposed are incapable of absorption. Bunge's hypo- 
thesis is that in some forms of anaemia, especially chlorosis, 
organic salts of iron taken in the food are in some way split up 
in the intestines so as to be incapable of absorption. In those 
anaemic conditions which can be benefited by iron the adminis- 
tration of the inorganic salts prevents the decomposition of the 
organic salts in the food by fixing the decomposing agents, 
which according to Bunge are chiefly alkaline sulphides. This is 
supported by the factjthat to cure chlorosis rapidly, enormous doses 
of iron are often found to be necessary; for example, a patient will 
take 6 grains of reduced iron three times a day, or 18 grains a day. 
Now, the whole amount of iron in the blood of an ordinary healthy 
woman is not much if at all more than 30 grains, for there is 
only one atom of iron in a molecule of haemoglobin, which con- 
tains considerably over 2000 atoms. Supposing she had lost half 
her haemoglobin, if the iron given were simply absorbed, one 



IRON. 167 

day's treatment would speedily restore her health, but it is well 
known that weeks are often required. Another argument point- 
ing in the same direction is that arsenic, manganese, or copper 
will, it is stated, cure the anaemia almost as efficiently as iron. 

Remote effects. — As iron in anaemic subjects increases the 
amount of haemoglobin, more oxygen is carried to the tissues, 
and thus the whole body shares in the benefit of a course of iron, 
which has also been thought to have a direct effect on the 
kidneys as a mild diuretic, and a direct effect in promoting the 
menstrual flow. These actions are, however, slight, and may be 
due to the general improvement in health. Iron salts have been 
given to produce abortion, but without any result. Remote 
astringent effects have been attributed to them, but there is no 
satisfactory proof that they have any ; and indeed, when we 
remember that very little if any iron is absorbed in an astringent 
form, we should hardly expect that salts of iron could be 
remotely haemostatic or astringent. 

Therapeutics of Iron and its Salts. 

External. — Solutions of the sulphate, the chloride, the 
nitrate, and the Liquor Ferri Subsulphatis (Monsel's solution), 
are the most valuable local astringents we have. It matters very 
little which of these is used. In England the solution of the 
chloride is perhaps oftenest employed. Either is of service in 
many cases — for example, to stop haemorrhage from leech-bites, 
from the nose, from piles, or from the uterus, as in the haemor- 
rhage of malignant disease. A convenient way to employ them 
is on lint or cotton soaked in the solution, and a cavity such as 
the nose or uterus may be plugged with the lint. The aqueous 
solution of the chloride has been used as a spray for haemoptysis, 
but as it may excite coughing, it is not to be recommended. 
These preparations form very nasty clots, which readily decom- 
pose and give rise to septic infection. It is very useful as an 
astringent for painting on the fauces, pharynx or tonsils in in- 
flammation of these parts. It may, for this purpose, be diluted 
with an equal quantity of water, or a solution of 1 part of chlo- 



1 68 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

ride of iron in 4 of glycerine may be used. It has been advised 
to paint erysipelatous skin with the tincture of chloride of iron. 
\ solution of the sulphate (1 gr. to 5j) has been used in gleet. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinai tract. — The astringent prepara- 
tions may be swallowed in cases of severe bleeding from the sto- 
mach, such as that of malignant disease, ulcer, or cirrhosis. If 
the bleeding is profuse, a drachm of the Liquor Ferri Chloridi 
with a drachm of glycerine, to facilitate swallowing, may be given 
every hour or oftener, and this will sometimes apparently save a 
patient's life. For less serious haemorrhage smaller quantities 
will suffice. Intestinal haemorrhage may also be treated in the 
same way. 

The tendency of the per-salts of iron to constipate is usually 
overcome by the addition of some purgative ; thus sulphate of 
magnesium is commonly given with the chloride, and aloes is often 
prescribed with the sulphate of iron in a pill. This method how- 
ever interferes with the absorption of iron, and it is better to ad- 
minister the laxative separately, so that the dose can be regulated 
according to circumstances. The per-salts have been given for 
diarrhoea, but there are many drugs more suitable for this symp- 
tom. Chronic constipation is often very effectually treated by a 
pill of the sulphate of iron and extract of nux vomica, but prob- 
ably the efficient purgative in it is the nux vomica, although some 
claim that large doses of the sulphate of iron will overcome 
chronic constipation. Anyhow the constipating effect of the fer- 
ric salts is often much exaggerated. 

A rectal injection of a fluid drachm of the tincture of the 
chloride of iron to half a pint of water kills threadworms. 

Arsenical poisoning is best treated by the humid oxide of 
iron, which should be freshly prepared by mixing together 3 fl. 
oz. of Liquor Ferri Tersulphatis with 1 oz. of carbonate of sodium 
diluted with water. Half an ounce should be given every five or 
ten minutes. An insoluble arsenite is formed, and may be gotten 
rid of by a thoroughly purgative dose of sulphate of magnesium 
or some other simple purge. 

Blood, — The great use of iron salts is to restore the amount of 



IRON. 169 

haemoglobin and the number of red corpuscles in anaemia, espe- 
cially chlorosis. They are useless in pernicious anaemia, and 
generally of little value, if any, in the anaemia of leucocythaemia, 
exophthalmic goitre, or Hodgkin's disease. All other common 
forms of anaemia are secondary to some definite cause such as 
haemorrhage, lead poisoning, scurvy, &c, and are treated by the 
removal, if possible, of the cause of the anaemia, but recovery 
may be aided by the administration of iron. The chloride and 
the sulphate of iron are two of the most efficacious preparations, 
and pills containing a grain of the dried sulphate, with aloes or nux 
vomica if constipation is present, or the Pilulae Ferri Compositae, 
are very valuable. It is usual to begin with one pill containing 
one grain of the dried sulphate of iron thrice a day, but gradually 
the number of pills may be increased till three or four are taken 
at a dose. This method of large doses of the sulphate often ap- 
pears to cure more rapidly than smaller doses. If these astringent 
preparations cause indigestion, any of the milder preparations 
may be substituted. The carbonate may be given in pills in 
rapidly increasing doses, or the dose of reduced iron, conveniently 
given on bread and butter, may be pushed, Mistura Ferri Com- 
posita is a disagreeable preparation to take and to look at, and the 
inky character of the aromatic mixture makes it undesirable. The 
styptic taste of some of the preparations, especially the astringent 
ones, may be concealed by giving them with a drachm of gly- 
cerine, which acts by its viscosity and by reducing some of the 
ferric to a ferrous salt. It is often added to the tincture of the 
chloride. The scale preparations hardly ever disagree, they are 
therefore used for patients with a delicate digestion, and for such 
it is much better to make no attempt to rapidly increase the dose, 
but to depend on small doses spread over a long period. Mineral 
waters containing iron (such as those of La Bourboule and Levico) 
or the red wines may be given in such cases, but they are not often 
advisable, as they contain so little iron. Treatment of anaemia 
by iron leads, of course, to the improvement of the numerous 
symptoms, such as amenorrhoea, constipation, dyspepsia, &c, 
which are dependent upon the anaemia. That form of neuralgia 
which is associated with anaemia usually yields to iron. 
l 5 



170 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

The iodide of iron has been given, sometimes apparently with 
success, in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. 

Large doses of iron (10 or even 20 minims of the tincture of 
the chloride every hour or two) have been given in diphtheria 
and other forms of bad sore- throat, apparently with considerable 
benefit. Erysipelas has been treated in the same way. Fever 
due to other causes is said to contra-indicate the use of iron. 

Kidney — Iron salts are reported to have a feeble diuretic ac- 
tion, but this is doubtful. The chloride is often given empirically 
for all forms of Bright' s disease. Whether it does good is at 
present undecided. 

As iron is liable to cause indigestion, it should not be given 
near a meal. Occasionally a patient is found who cannot take iron 
in any form, because of the headache and indigestion caused by it. 

The different preparations of iron. — These have already been classified 
into astringent and non-astringent. There are some, viz., the iodide, the phos- 
phate, and the citrate of iron and quinine, the value of which depends in part 
at least upon their other ingredient. The phosphate of iron, which always contains 
some free phosphoric acid, is an excellent hsematinic. It is used largely for 
children, because the syrup of it is very pleasant in taste, and also because it 
was formerly believed that the phosphoric acid would aid the growth of bones, 
especially in cases of rickets. Parrish's food and Dusart's syrup both have for 
their chief ingredient the phosphate of iron; the dose of each is y^ to 2 fl. dr. 
Easton's syrup is a syrup of the phosphates of iron, quinine, and strychnine. It 
contains in 1 fl. dr., I gr. of phosphate of iron, ^ gr. of phosphate of quinine, 
and ^ gr. of strychnine. The dose is ^ to I fl. dr. The iodide of iron has 
been introduced for cases in which we wish to gain the benefit of both elements, 
but the proportion of iron to iodine is small (1 to 4^). It is especially prone 
to damage the teeth. The citrate of iron and quinine combines the virtues of 
both iron and quinine. It is a favorite mild preparation for slight cases of 
anaemia, but must not be prescribed with alkalies, as they precipitate the quinine. 

II. MANGANUM. 

Manganese. Symbol, Mn. Combining weight, 55. (Not officinal.) 

1. MANGANI OXIDUM NIGRUM.— Black Oxide of Manganese, 
Manganese Dioxide. Mn0 2 . 

Source. — Native, containing at least 66 per cent, of the pure oxide. 

Characters. — A heavy, black, gritty powder, insoluble in water. Used 
only for making chlorine, bichloride of mercury, and permanganate of potassium. 



PERMANGANATE OF POTASSIUM. 171 

2. MANGANI SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Manganese. MnS0 4 4H 2 0. 
Source. — By heating the black oxide with concentrated sulphuric acid. 
Characters. — Colorless, or pale, rose-colored, transparent, right rhombic 

prisms. Soluble in 0.7 parts of water. 

3. POTASSII PERMANGANAS. — Permanganate of Potassium. 
K 2 Mn 2 8 . 

Source. — Caustic potash, chlorate of potassium, and black oxide of man- 
ganese are heated together. 6KHO + KC10 3 + 3Mn0 2 = 3K 2 Mn0 4 -j- KC1 
-f- 3H 2 0. The manganate of potassium is boiled with water till the color 
changes to purple, and the permanganate is formed. 3K 2 Mn0 4 -f- 2H 2 = 
K 2 Mn 2 8 -f- 4KHO -|- Mn0 2 . The liquid is neutralized with carbonic acid 
gas and evaporated. 

Characters. — Dark purple-violet, delicate, slender, rhombic prisms. 
Solubility. — I in 20 of water ; a grain gives a fine purple color to a gallon of water. 

Incompatibles. — It is very readily deoxidized in the presence of organic 
matter. It is usually given as a pill or a tabella, and should be made up with 
kaolin, or an explosion will very likely take place. 

Impurities — Carbonate of potassium, black oxide of manganese. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. as a pill. 

Action of Permanganate of Potassium. 

External. — In a solid form it is a mild caustic and is, when 
kept dry, a permanent salt. Its most important action is that 
when moist it readily gives up its oxygen in the presence of 
organic bodies, and its solutions therefore quickly turn dark brown, 
manganese dioxide being formed. The power possessed by its 
solution of giving up oxygen makes it a disinfectant, deodo- 
rant, and antiseptic, especially as much of the oxygen is in 
the form of ozone. But its action as a germicide is very limited, 
for it so readily gives up its oxygen to the organic substances in 
which the micro-organisms flourish that it very soon becomes inert. 

Internal. — Permanganate of potassium when taken internally 
must be quickly decomposed. Manganese salts cannot be ab- 
sorbed by the intestine unless its epithelium is damaged. When 
they are injected into the blood they are excreted in the urine and 
into the intestine Probably their action much resembles that of 
iron salts, but so little is known on this point, that it is doubtful 
if they should be considered of value. 



172 inorganic materia medica. 

Therapeutics of Permanganate of Potassium. 

External. — Although permanganate of potassium is not of 
much practical use as a germicide, it is commonly employed as a 
deodorant for drains, bed-pans, to wash utensils, and to wash the 
hands; for the last purpose it is suitable as being non-irritant. It 
has one advantage, namely, that it is easy by its change in color 
to see when it has lost its efficacy. One in 150 is a serviceable 
strength. Condy's red fluid consists of 8 grains of permangan- 
ate of potassium to the fluid ounce of distilled water. It is ex- 
pensive for purposes requiring a large quantity. It stains fabrics. 
The stain may be got out by applying sulphurous acid, but the fabric 
must be immediately rinsed in water for sulphuric acid is formed. 

Internal. — The official liquor of permanganate of potassium 
(B.P., 1 in 100 of distilled water) considerably diluted can be 
used as a mouth wash or gargle in foul conditions of the mouth, 
or as an injection in cases of foul discharges, such as may occur 
with gonorrhoea, vaginitis, uterine disease or ozaena. Some con- 
sider that permanganate of potassium* is beneficial for the same 
cases of anaemia, as iron, but it is not nearly so much used, others 
praise its power in amenorrhoea. It should be always given as 
a pill, for the taste of solution of it is very nasty. If it is of any 
use in anaemia, it probably acts in the same way as iron. 



GROUP VI. 

Containing Gold and Mercury. 

AURUM. 

Gold. Symbol, Au. Combining weight, 196.2. (Not officinal.) 
This metal is represented by only one preparation. 

AURI ET SODII CHLORIDUM.— Chloride of Gold and Sodium. 
A mixture composed of equal parts of dry chloride of gold (AuCl 3 ) and chlor- 
ide of Sodium (NaCl). 

Characters. — An orange-yellow powder, odorless, having a saline and 
metallic taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Very soluble in water, and at least 
one-half is soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 3V to X V gr. 



MERCURY. I 7 5 

Action and Therapeutic. 

In small doses the chloride of gold and sodium is supposed to promote ap- 
petite and digestion, to stimulate the functions of the brain and to be an aphro- 
disiac. Full doses cause nausea and vomiting, and finally impair nutrition. 
The toxic symptoms resemble those of poisoning by corrosive sublimate. It is 
a useful remedy in irritative dyspepsia, gastro-duodenal catarrh, hypochondri- 
i, chronic ovarian irritation and ovaritis, in chronic albuminuria, hepatic 
sclerosis, granular kidney, as it prevents hyperplasia of connective tissue. It is 
a valuable remedy in the tertiary manifestations of syphilis, especially of the 
bones, and presents fewer disadvantages than does the bichloride of mercury. 

i. HYDRARGYRUM. 

Mercury. Quicksilver. Symbol, Hg. Combining weight, ic: - 

Source, — Cinnabar, the native sulphide, is roasted or distilled with lime. 
Character — A brilliantly lustrous, fluid metal, easily divisible into small 
globules. Boils at 662 F. Solidifies at — 40" F. 
Impurities. — Lead, tin, and other metals. 

Preparations containing free mercury. 

1. Hydrargyrum cum Creta. S) — Gray powder. 
Strength. — 3$ parts of mercury with 50 of prepared chalk, and 12 of 
sugar of milk . By keeping, the mercury is liable to become mercuric 
oxide, which makes the powder more active. 

Dose. l 2 to I0 §?• 

2. Emplastrum Hydrargyri. — Mercury, 30; olive oil, 10; :t 
10 ; lead plaster, 50. Strength. — 30 per cent of mer: 

3. Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro. — Mercury, 180; 
olive oil, 8; sublimed sulphur, i; ammoniacum, 720; diluted acetic 
acid and lead plaster a sufficient quantity to 1 000. Strength. — I.S per 
cent, of mercury. 

4. Massa Hydrargyri. Synonym. — Blue mass. Mercury, :: : 
honey of rose, 34; glycyrrhiza, 5 ; althaea, 25 ; glycerin. 5. Strength. — 

ier cent of mercury. 
Dose. % to 15 gr. 

5. Urxguentum Hydrargyri. :. — Blue ointment. Mer- 
cury, 450; lard. 225 \ soet, _:-: compound tincture of benzoin, 40: 
mercurial ointment, 100. — _5 percent of mercury. 

2. HYDRARGYRI OXIDUM RUB RUM. —Red Oxide of Mercury, 
Mercuric Oxide. HgO. :. — Red precipitate. 



174 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Source. — Dissolve mercury in diluted nitric acid. 3Hg -f- 8HN0 3 — 
3(Hg2N0 3 ) + 2NO -\- 4H 2 0. Evaporate to dryness. Triturate the pernitrate 
thus formed with mercury, and heat. Hg2N0 3 + Hg — HgO -\- 2N0 2 . 

Characters. — Orange-red, crystalline scales or powder, almost in- 
soluble in water. 

Impurities. — Red lead, brick dust, nitrate of mercury. 

Dose, }( to 1 gr. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Hydrargyri Oxidi Rubri. Synonym. — Red pre- 
cipitate ointment. Red oxide, 10; ointment, 90. 

3. HYDRARGYRI OXIDUM FLAVUM.- Yellow Oxide of Mer- 
cury, Yellow Mercuric Oxide. HgO. 

Source. — Precipitate a solution of mercuric chloride with caustic potash. 
HgCl 2 -f 2KHO= HgO + 2KCI + H 2 0. 

Characters. — A yellow powder, insoluble in water. Not given intern- 
ally. It is contained in Lotio Hydrargyri Flava (B.P. — Bichloride of mercury, 
1 ; lime water, 243.). It has the same composition as the red oxide, but is 
more crystalline. The oleate is sometimes described as a preparation, but it is 
probably a definite chemical compound. 

Preparations. 

1. Unguentum Hydrargyri Oxidi Flavi. — Ointment of yellow 
oxide of mercury. Yellow oxide of mercury, 10; ointment, 90. 

2. Oleatum Hydrargyri. — Oleate of Mercury. Yellow oxide 
of mercury, 10; oleic acid, 90. 

4. HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDUM CORROSIVUM.— Corrosive 

Chloride of Mercury, Mercuric Bichloride. Synonym. — Corrosive sublimate. 
HgCl 2 . 

Source. — Heat a mixture of persulphate of mercury, chloride of sodium, 
and manganese dioxide. HgS0 4 + 2NaCl + Mn0 2 = HgCl 2 + Na 2 S0 4 + 
Mn0 2 . The bichloride sublimes and is condensed. The object of the man- 
ganese dioxide is to prevent the formation of mercurous chloride by setting free 
chlorine, which will convert it into mercuric chloride. 

Characters. — Heavy, colorless masses of prismatic (rhombic) crystals. 
Solubility. — I in 16 of water, 1 in 3 of alcohol. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies and their carbonates, iodide of potassium, lime 
water, tartar emetic, nitrate of silver, acetate of lead, albumen, soaps, vegetable 
preparations containing tannic acid, and in fact most substances. 

Dose, Jo to T L gr. 

5. HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDUM MITE.— Mild Chloride of Mer- 
cury, Mercurous Chloride. Synonym. — Calomel. Hg 2 Cl 2 . 



MERCURY 175 

Source. — Rub mercury with the persulphate to form the subsulphate, 
Hg 2 S0 4 . Add chloride of sodium, and then heat. Calomel sublimes. Hg 2 S0 4 
+ 2NaCl = Hg 2 Cl 2 + Na 2 S0 4 . 

Characters. — A dull white, heavy, insoluble, nearly tasteless powder. 

Impurities. — Perchloride of mercury. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 10 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Pilulae Catharticae Compositse. — Calomel, 100 ; compound 
extract of colocynth, 130; abstract of jalap, 100; gamboge, 25 grs. 
Strength. — Calomel, 1 in 3.55. 

Dose, 1 to 3. 

2. Pilulae Antimonii Compositae. Synonym. — Plummer's pills. 
Calomel, 50; sulphurated antimony, 50; guaiac, 100 grs. Strength. — 
Calomel, I in 4. 

Dose, 1 to 3. 

6. HYDRARGYRI IODIDUM RUBRUM.— Red Iodide of Mer- 
cury, Mercuric Iodide. Hgl 2 . 

Source. — Mix hot solutions of corrosive chloride of mercury and iodide 
of potassium. Filter and dry the precipitated red iodide. 

Characters. — A scarlet-red, crystalline powder, feebly soluble in water, 
but easily in a solution of iodide of potassium. 

Impurities. — The same as of the bichloride. 

Dose, ^ to T \ gr. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri Iodidi. Synonym. — Donovan's 
solution. Dissolve equal parts of iodide of arsenic and mercuric iodide 
in water. A clear, pale yellow liquid. Strength. — I per cent, of each 
iodide. 

Dose, 1 to 10 m. 

7. HYDRARGYRI IODIDUM VIRIDE.— Hg 2 I 2 . Green Iodide 
of Mercury. Synonym. — Protiodide of Mercury. 

Source. — By trituration of 8 parts of mercury and 5 parts of iodine, 
with addition of alcohol. 

Characters. — A dull green or greenish-yellow powder, odorless and 
tasteless. Almost insoluble in water and wholly insoluble in alcohol and ether. 

Dose, ]/e to 1 gr. 

8. LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI N I TR AT IS. —Solution of Mercuric 
Nitrate, or Pernitrate of Mercury. Hg(N0 3 ) 2 in solution in nitric acid. 

Source. — Dissolve red oxide of mercury 40, in nitric acid 45, with dis- 
tilled water 15, and heat. 



176 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — A colorless, strongly acid liquid, containing much free nitric 
acid. Sp. gr. 2.100. 

Impurity. — Mercurous nitrate. 

9. UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS. Synonym.— 

Citrine ointment. 

Source. — Mix a hot solution of mercury 7, in nitric acid 17, with lard 
oil 76. 

Characters. — A lemon-yellow ointment. 

10. HYDRARGYRUM AMMONIATUM.— Ammoniated Mercury. 

NH 2 HgCl. Synonym. — White precipitate. 

Source. — Mix solutions of ammonia and bichloride of mercury. HgCl 2 -f- 
2NH 4 ,OH=NH 2 HgCl+NH 4 Cl-|-2H 2 0. Filter and wash the precipitated 
ammoniated mercury. 

Characters. — An opaque white powder, very insoluble. 

Impurities. — The same as of the bichloride. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Hydrargyri Ammoniati. Synonym. — White pre- 
cipitate ointment. White precipitate, 10; benzoinated lard, 90. 

11. HYDRARGYRI CYANIDUM. Cyanide of Mercury. Hg(CN) 2 . 
Source. — By distillation of ferrocyanide of potassium and. sulphuric acid 

into red oxide of mercury in water, filtration and evaporation, crystallization. 

Characters. — Colorless or white prismatic crystals, odorless, having a 
bitter, metallic taste and a neutral reaction. Soluble in 12.8 parts of water and 
15 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, ^ to T V gr. 

12. HYDRARGYRI SUBSULPHAS FLAVUS. Yellow Subsul 
phate of Mercury. Hg(HgO) 2 S0 4 . Synonym. — Turpeth mineral. 

Source. — By solution of mercury, 10; sulphuric acid, 5; nitric acid, 4; 
water, a sufficient quantity ; decantation, drying of the residue. 

Characters. — A heavy, lemon-yellow powder, odorless and almost taste- 
less, insoluble in water or alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 4 gr. 

13. HYDRARGYRI SULPHIDUM RUBRUM. Red Sulphide 
of Mercury. HgS. Synonym. — Cinnabar. 

Source. — By melting sulphur and mercury together, and sublimation. 
Characters. — Brilliant, dark red, crystalline masses, or a fine bright, 
scarlet powder, odorless and tasteless, insoluble in water or alcohol. 



MERCURY. 177 

Action of Mercury and its Salts. 

External. — The bichloride of mercury is one of the 
most powerful and important antiseptics with which we are 
acquainted. In 1870 it was discovered that 1 part in 6000 would 
kill infusoria and spermatozoa. Now it is known to be a universal 
germicide. The published results of experiments with it vary- 
very much, because the duration of the action, the solvent, and 
the micro-organism experimented upon, are not always the same. 
Evans (Guy's Hosp. Rep., vol. xlvii) found that anthrax 
spores were destroyed by corrosive sublimate solutions of 1 in 
1000 acting for a quarter of an hour, and 1 in 3000 acting for 
one hour. The bacilli themselves were destroyed by solutions 
of 1 in 15,000 acting for one minute, and 1 in 25,000 acting for 
half an hour. A solution of 1 in 70,000 prevented the growth 
of the spores, and one of 1 in 500,000 prevented the growth of 
the bacilli. A reference to carbolic acid (q. v.) will show how 
much more powerful corrosive sublimate is. A solution of 1 in 
1000 is very commonly employed for many disinfecting purposes. 
If albumen be present in the fluid to be disinfected, an albumi- 
nate of mercury is formed, and the antiseptic value of the fluid 
is destroyed. This change may be prevented by the addition of 
5 parts of either hydrochloric or tartaric acid to 1 of corrosive 
sublimate. The biniodide is also a powerful antiseptic. Metallic 
instruments cannot be disinfected with the bichloride, for mer- 
cury is deposited on them. 

Most mercurials, especially the oleate, oxide, ammoniate, 
nitrate and bichloride, will destroy the animal and vegetable 
parasites that infest the skin; they are, therefore, antiparasitic. 
Also most of them will occasionally relieve itching, even when 
no cause is to be found. 

The mercurial preparations, especially the red iodide and the 
nitrate, are powerful irritants. The latter is strongly caustic. 
Mercurous salts are slightly irritant and stimulating ; calomel is 
sometimes applied to sores for this property. 

Metallic mercury and its salts are absorbed by the skin, 

especially when rubbed in either as an oleate or an ointment. 
16 



178 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

These preparations are also taken up, although to a less degree, 
if simply applied to the skin, which likewise allows the metal or 
its salts to pass through when in the form of a fine vapor. All 
the symptoms of mercurial poisoning can be produced if the 
drug is absorbed through the skin. The vapor can be ab- 
sorbed through the mucous membrane of the lungs. 

Internal. — Although the different salts of mercury have dif- 
ferent external actions, after absorption their actions are, in 
most respects, similar. The long-continued use of excessive doses 
of mercurials produces well-marked and important symptoms 
{see Toxicology). The actions for which mercurials are used in 
medicine are the following : 

Stomach and intestines. — The metal mercury itself and mer- 
curous compounds, being mildly irritant in their action, are 
often used as purgatives ; but the mercuric compounds given 
in the same doses produce severe gastro-intestinal irritation. The 
action is chiefly on the duodenum and upper part of the jeju- 
num • the precise mode of irritation is unknown, but it is certain 
that, in consequence of the administration of the mercurial, the 
contents of the duodenum are hurried along before there is time 
for the bile to be reabsorbed, and hence the motions are very 
dark-colored. There is probably some, but not an excessive 
increased secretion from the intestinal walls, for the motions, 
although large and loose, are not watery. As the action of the 
mercurial is chiefly on the upper part of the intestine, it is greatly 
assisted by giving a saline purge a few hours after it, for this will 
act more on the lower part of the bowel. The contents are 
passed along so quickly, that it is doubtful whether there is time 
for much mercury to be absorbed if a purgative dose of it has 
been given. Calomel and the metallic preparations are the two 
forms most used as purgatives. The former is the more powerful. 
Whatever compound of mercury is taken by the mouth, it, in 
the stomach, becomes a complex albuminate containing mercury, 
sodium, chlorine, and albumen. This compound in the presence 
of the chloride of sodium in the stomach, can exist in solution 
there. Precisely what happens to it in the duodenum is doubtful, 



MERCURY. 179 

but it is quite certain that if the dose is insufficient to cause 
purgation some mercury is absorbed, the rest passing out of the 
bowel as a sulphide. 

Liver. — It was formerly taught that calomel increased the 
amount of bile formed by the liver. This is now known to be 
an error, but bi-chloride of mercury increases it, and possibly, 
occasionally when calomel is administered, some of it is converted 
into the bichloride. Large doses of calomel are said to slightly 
diminish the secretion of bile. Calomel and, to a less extent, 
preparations of metallic mercury are, however, called indirect 
cholagogues, because they, in the manner already explained, 
aid the excretion of bile. 

Blood. — After absorption the mercurial compound formed in 
the stomach and intestines probably becomes oxidized, and circu- 
lates as an oxyalbuminate. Minute, long-continued doses of mer- 
cury slightly increase the richness of the blood in red corpuscles, 
and in animals may add a little to the weight of the body. 
Large doses produce anaemia. 

Remote effects. — Mercury is excreted by the saliva, bile, urine, 
sweat, and milk. In small doses no effects can be attributed to 
this, but in large doses mercury irritates the salivary glands and 
is a powerful sialogogue. By itself it is a feeble diuretic, but 
it sometimes powerfully aids other diuretics. It is eliminated 
very slowly, and hence accumulates in the body. 

Therapeutics of Mercury and its Salts. 

External. — Antiseptic action. — Solutions of the bi-chloride 
are very largely employed. A strength of 1 in 1000 is used for 
washing the hands, for washing the parts to be operated upon, for 
soaking towels, lint, sponges, &c, used in operations, for washing 
infected articles, infected rooms, furniture, linen, &c. For wounds 
and cavities (as the uterus), the strength for a single washing should 
not exceed 1 in 2000, for continual irrigation 1 in 10,000. 

Antiparasitic action. — White precipitate ointment, dilute ni- 
trate of mercury ointment, and a wash of the bi-chloride are very 
useful for destroying lice on the head ; and these three, especially 



l8o INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

the last, are excellent for destroying the fungus in ringworm and 
favus. The oleate of mercury is useful for destroying that in 
pityriasis versicolor ; if the skin is easily irritated it should be 
sufficiently diluted. Mercurials should not be applied over so 
large an area that there is a risk of poisoning from absorption. 

Irritant action. — The solution of the ni rate is used to destroy 
warts, condylomata, &c ; no doubt much of its caustic action is 
due to the free nitric acid it contains Milder preparations, such 
as the ointment of the nitrate, or of the red oxide, if diluted, 
may be used for tinea tarsi ; and the same ointments are very 
beneficial to any ulcer or sore that requires a stimulant, whether 
or not it be syphilitic. When a milder preparation is required 
calomel is often dusted on the part; and black wash (Lotio 
nigra, B.P. — Calomel, i; lime water, 146 \) is very commonly 
used, especially for syphilitic sores and condylomata. 

Itching. — Black wash, yellow wash, or Unguentum Hydrargyri 
may be employed to relieve the itching of skin diseases, such as 
pruritus senilis and urticaria, if they are not too extensive. A 
very favorite ointment for many skin diseases is composed of equal 
parts of the dilute nitrate of mercury, oxide of zinc, and acetate 
of lead ointments (see p. 150). 

Absorbent action. — All mercurial ointments and the oleate, 
when applied to or gently rubbed into any part which is chroni- 
cally inflamed, often aid the absorption of the products of inflam- 
mation, if they are not too deep-seated. For this purpose blue 
ointment, or the oleate, are very commonly used for chronic 
inflammation of joints, chronically enlarged glands, and chronic 
peritonitis, which certainly sometimes appears to be cured by the 
application of a binder spread with one of these preparations or 
the Liniment um Hydrargyri of the B. P., which consists of 1 
part each of mercurial ointment, solution of ammonia and cam- 
phor liniment, even when the disease is tuberculous. The oint- 
ment of the red iodide is, in India, applied to the thyroid gland 
in goitre. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Very dilute solutions (4 gr. 
to 10 fl. oz. water with 8 T|| of dilute hydrochloric acid) may be 



MERCURY. l8l 

used as a mouth wash for syphilitic ulceration. Ringer advises 
gray powder in minute doses for the sudden vomiting immediately 
after food sometimes met with in children. By far the most 
important intestinal action of mercury is its purgative effect. 
Calomel and blue pill are pre-eminently the purgatives to employ 
when there is, from the headache, constipation, furred tongue, 
feeling of weight over the liver, and general lassitude, reason to 
suspect that the dyspepsia is hepatic. Either of these drugs at 
night, followed by a watery purge, in the morning, will 
often completely relieve the symptoms. The blue pill at 
night, and black draught (Infusum Sennae Compositum) in the 
morning have long been a favorite combination. Mercury or 
calomel is also one of the best purgatives for cases of cirrhosis, 
and for cardiac cases in which there is considerable hepatic con- 
gestion. Gray powder mixed with a little sugar is an excellent 
purgative for children, or even for adults, when a very mild purge 
is required — as, for example, after severe enteritis or peritonitis, 
or if it is desirable to open the bowels during typhoid fever. 
Children take mercury very well. Infants can easily bear grain 
doses of the gray powder. As diarrhoea, especially in children, 
is so often due to the presence of some irritant, a simple purgative, 
as gray powder, will, by removing it, often cure the diarrhoea. 
This preparation hardly ever causes griping, but calomel is liable 
to do so. 

Remote uses. — In cases of heart disease mercury is often com- 
bined with digitalis and squill as a diuretic (as in the well-known 
Guy's diuretic pill: blue pill, 12 gr,; powdered squill root, 12 
gr.; powdered digitalis leaves, 12 gr.; extract of hyoscyamus, 20 
gr.; make 12 pills), and in some cases this combination does 
great good. 

Syphilis. — Mercury in any form is powerfully antisyphilitic. 
This action is so important that it makes mercury one of the most 
valuable drugs we have. It has already been mentioned that it 
may be applied locally to syphilitic ulcerations, but to be of any 
use it is essential that it should also be administered so as to reach 
the blood. It is a direct antidote to the syphilitic virus ; it can 



1 82 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

completely cure the patient, its use must be continued over a 
long time, but it should never be pushed to salivation. Treatment 
should be begun at as early a stage as possible, as soon as the 
diagnosis is established. It is especially valuable in the primary 
and secondary stages ; authorities differ as to its value in tertiary 
syphilis. It is as efficacious for the congenital as for the acquired 
disease. It is also administered for many non-syphilitic varieties 
of chronic inflammation, but not so often as formerly. Patients 
with disease of the kidneys do not bear it well. 

Modes of administration of mercurials. — (i) By the mouth.— The Liquor 
Hydrargyri Perchloridi of the B. P., which is one-half grain each of bichloride 
of mercury and chloride of ammonium in an ounce of water, is often given to 
adults, usually in doses of I to 2 fl. dr. For the later symptoms of syphilis, 
iodide of potassium is often combined with it. Biniodide of mercury is formed 
and is kept in solution by the excess of iodide of potassium. Mercurous iodide, 
or the green iodide of mercury, is much used by some ; the dose is */£ to I gr. 
in a pill. It is insoluble in water and is incompatible with iodide of potassium, 
the red iodide and metallic mercury being formed. It does not keep well. The 
best preparation for children is ^ to I gr. of gray powder, given just often 
enough to avoid purgation. 

(2) By the rectum. — Occasionally mercury is given as a suppository, 
which is official in the B. P. Each contains 5 grains of mercurial ointment 

(3) Endermically. — Mercurials, especially calomel, are often dusted on 
sores and ulcers, and lotions are also locally applied. Mercury can be absorbed 
in this way. 

(4) By inunction. — Blue ointment may be rubbed into the skin. The 
best position is the inner side of the thigh. Usually a piece the size of the top 
of the thumb, rubbed in once a day, is enough. It has been put inside the sock, 
for then it is rubbed into the foot during walking. A very efficient way of ap- 
plying the ointment in children is to smear it on a flannel binder which is worn 
round the abdomen. The oleate may be employed for inunction. Mercury is 
rapidly absorbed by these means. 

(5) Hypodermically. — One-eighth of a grain or less of the bichloride 
dissolved in about 5 to 8 Til of distilled water is used for a dose. The needle 
of a hypodermic syringe is plunged deeply into some muscles, preferably those 
of the gluteal region, and to the outer side of it, so that the patient does not sit 
or lie on the spot. One-sixth of a grain of morphine in solution is injected. 
The needle is left in situ, the syringe is taken off and filled to the required dose 
with the bichloride solution, which is injected through the needle. If much 
pain is caused, a piece of ice may be held over the part before the injection 



MERCURY. 1 8$ 

and after the needle is withdrawn. The injection should be repeated daily. 
Before going to bed is a good time. With proper care no abscesses result. 
This is a very rapid and thorough way of bringing the patient under the influ- 
ence of mercury. 

(6) Fumigation. — Calomel or cinnabar is used. The patient, who is 
naked, sits on a cane-bottomed chair ; a blanket, which reaches to the floor, is 
fastened lightly round his neck. Twenty grains of calomel are placed in a 
porcelain dish, over a spirit lamp, under the chair. The calomel volatilizes, and 
is absorbed by the skin. A bath should last twenty minutes ; with obvious 
modifications this method may be applied to patients in bed. Cinnabar is used 
for the same purpose, the amount required being about a drachm. 

(7) Inhalation. — This is rarely or never used. 

Baths of three drachms of the bichloride to thirty gallons of water, with 

one fluid drachm of hydrochloric acid added, have been used, but they are 

very rarely employed. 

Toxicology. 

Acute poisoning is rare. Salts of mercury, especially the per-salts, pro- 
duce severe gastro-intestinal irritation, causing great pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. 
Corrosive sublimate and white precipitate are the preparations usually taken. 

Chronic poisoning by mercury or its salts produces a train of remarkable 
symptoms. They were very common when it was the practice to give larger 
doses of mercurials than are now employed, and they are occasionally seen in 
those who work in mercury. In the present day, when the patient shows any 
sign of mercurialism, the dose is reduced. These symptoms (which constitute 
hydrargyrism or mercurialism) may be brought about however the mercury is 
taken. The first indications noticed are slight fcetor of the breath and soreness 
of the gums when the teeth are brought forcibly together, by closure of the jaws. 
Then follows a disagreeable metallic taste in the mouth, the gums become 
swollen and soft, and they bleed readily. Next there is a considerable increase 
in the amount of saliva secreted. All these symptoms gradually become more 
marked, and the tongue swells. The teeth are now loose, the saliva, which is 
thick and viscid, pours over the mouth, the parotid and salivary glands are en- 
larged and tender, and there is a slight rise of temperature. In olden days 
these symptoms occasion \lly ended in the falling out of the teeth, extensive ul- 
ceration of the mouth and tongue, necrosis of the jaw, great weakness, emacia- 
tion, anaemia, a watery state of the blood, a liability to haemorrhages, exhaustion, 
and death. 

More rarely the symptoms are, for the most part, "nervous. These occur, 
chiefly, if not entirely, among those who work in the metal and inhale the va- 
por. The first to be observed is tremor, beginning in the face, then invading 
the arm, and afterwards the legs. Early in the case the trembling is seen only 
on movement; soon it is permanent. It resembles paralysis agitans. Usually 



1 84 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

there is considerable weakness of the affected muscles (" mercurial palsy"). 
There may be pains, and a weak mental condition is common. Nothing has 
been found, post mortem, to account for these symptoms. 



GROUP VII. 

Arsenic, Antimony, Chromium. 

The compounds of these metals have several physiological and some 
chemical points in common. The oxide of each is externally a powerful caus- 
tic. Internally, arsenic, antimony, and (as far as we know) chromium com- 
pounds are severe gastro-intestinal irritants. Arsenic and antimony in large 
doses both cause general fatty degeneration. 

I. ARSENIUM. 

Metallic Arsenic. Symbol, As. Combining weight, 75. (Not officinal.) 

1. Acidum Arseniosum. — Arsenious Acid, Arsenious Anhydride. Sy- 
nonyms. — Arsenic, White arsenic. As 2 3 . 

Source. — Arsenical ores are roasted and purified by sublimation. 

Characters. — A heavy, white powder, or striated opaque white masses. 
Solubility. — I in 30 to 80 parts of cold, I in 15 of boiling water. When vola- 
tilized and sublimed, it forms a minute, transparent, brilliant octahedral crystal. 
W T hen heated it gives off a garlic-like odor, 

Incompatibles. — Lime water, salts of iron, magnesia. 

Impurities. — Lime salts. 

Dose, 3L to T V gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Liquor Potassii Arsenitis. Synonym. — Fowler's solution. 
Arsenious acid, I ; bicarbonate of potassium, I ; compound tincture of 
lavender, 3. Boil in sufficient water to make loo. Probably no de- 
composition occurs. Strength. — 1 of arsenious acid in loo. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

2. Liquor Acidi Arseniosi. — Arsenious acid 1, is boiled with 
hydrochloric acid 2, and water to make 100. No decomposition occurs. 
Strength. — 1 of arsenious acid in 100. 

Dose, 5 to 10 m. 

2. SODII ARSENIAS.— Arseniate of Sodium. Na 2 HAs0 4 , 7H.O. 
Source. — Heat to redness arsenious acid, nitrate of sodium, and carbonate 

of sodium, dissolve the fused mass in water and crystallize. Pyroarseniate of 



ARSENIC. 185 

sodium is formed. As 2 3 + 2NaN0 3 + Na 2 C0 3 = Na 4 As 2 7 + N 2 O s + C0 2 . 
On adding water to the pyroarseniate a solution of arseniate, which crystallizes 
on standing, is formed. Na 4 As 2 7 + H 2 = 2Na 2 HAs0 4 . 

Characters.— Colorless, transparent prisms. It usually contains twelve 
molecules of water when fresh ; on exposure to air it effloresces, and the twelve 
molecules become seven. 

Solubility. — 1 in 4 of water. The solution is alkaline. 

Dose, 3 V to T V gr. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Sodii Arseniatis. Synonym. — Pearson's solution. 
Strength. — 1 of arseniate of sodium in water, 100. It contains about 
half as much metallic arsenic as Liquor Potassii Arsenitis. 

Dose, 3 to 10 m. 

3. ARSENII IODIDUM.— Iodide of Arsenium. Asl 3 . 

Source. — Made either by the direct union of iodine and metallic arsenic, 
or by mixing solutions of arsenious and hydriodic acids and evaporating. 

Characters. — Small orange-red crystals. Soluble in 3.5 parts of water, 
and in 10 of alcohol. Solution neutral. 

Dose, Jq to T V gr. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri Iodidi. Synonym. — Donovan's 
solution. See Mercury, p. 175. 

Action of Arsenical Compounds. 

External. — Arsenious acid has no action on the skin, but 
applied to raw surfaces it is a powerful caustic. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Unless the dose be very 
small, all preparations containing arsenic are very severe gastro- 
intestinal irritants {see Toxicology). In minute doses they 
are gastric stimulants, causing dilatation of the gastric vessels and 
an increased flow of gastric juice. Small doses also stimulate the 
duodenum. 

Blood.— Arsenic is absorbed into the blood. Nothing is 
known of its physiological action there, but it can in some forms 
of anaemia increase the haemoglobin and the number of red cor- 
puscles. 

Circulation. — In the frog the rapidity and force of the heart 
are lessened till it finally stops. This is a local action, for it 
takes place when applied to the excised heart. 



1 86 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Re?note effects. — In many diseases arsenic evidently pro- 
foundly affects metabolism, for the patient recovers under treat- 
ment by this drug. It is doubtful whether if given in small 
doses to healthy persons it usually does more than sharpen the 
appetite. It has been stated by Dogiel to unite with albumen ; 
another view, that of Binz and Schulz, is that arsenious acid be- 
comes arsenic acid by taking oxygen from the protoplasm, but 
that the arsenic acid subsequently yields up the oxygen again. 
Some of the people in Styria eat white arsenic in small quan- 
tities, and it is said to increase their strength and clear their 
complexion. Wood concludes that small doses of arsenic check 
tissue change and decrease nitrogenous elimination, whilst toxic 
doses have the opposite effect. But there is no proof of any of 
these statements, and we have no certain knowledge of the influ- 
ence of arsenic on nutrition, nor do we know of any action to 
which its beneficial effects in many diseases can be referred, but 
as the drug certainly in some way alters the condition of the 
sufferer it is vaguely called an alterative. It is eliminated by the 
urine, by the alimentary canal, the skin, the saliva, the milk, and 
even the tears. It may be found many years after death in the 
bodies of those who have taken it during life. 

Therapeutics of Arsenical Compounds. 

External. — Formerly arsenic was used as a caustic to destroy 
growths, lupus, warts, &c, either as pure arsenious acid or as a 
paste. Arsenious acid, i part ; charcoal, i part ; red sulphide 
of mercury, 4 parts; and water, q. s., is the formula of a paste 
once very popular. It must be used strong enough to make the 
mass of dead tissue slough out quickly, or else the patient be- 
comes poisoned, for the arsenic is rapidly absorbed. Arsenious 
acid }i grain, with a grain of calomel, vermilion, or black anti- 
mony make a caustic powder. Liquor potassii arsenitis has been 
recommended by Ringer as an application for corns. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Arsenious acid is useful to 
destroy the tooth pulps before filling teeth. 

In some forms of dyspepsia small doses of the liquor potassii 



ARSENIC. 187 

arsenitis are occasionally given to stimulate the appetite. Arse- 
nic is so liable to cause sickness, diarrhoea, and other symptoms 
of poisoning, that it is a rule always to begin a course of it with 
small doses, say 3 or 4 TTL of the liquor potassii arsenitis, or -^ to 
■^q gr. of arsenious acid as a pill, and to gradually increase the 
quantity. Arsenic in any form should always be taken imme- 
diately after meals, so as to dilute it by the contents of a full 
stomach. Children bear it well ; old people do not. Very 
small doses sometimes check vomiting, especially that form in 
which the food simply regurgitates, and in exceptional cases it 
may succeed in checking diarrhoea when other drugs have failed. 

Remote Effects. — Arsenic is of great value in chronic super- 
ficial skin diseases not owing their cause to an irritant. It is, 
therefore, largely used for psoriasis, pemphigus, and sometimes 
for chronic eczema. It is of no use in the acute stages of these 
maladies, nor if cutaneous inflammation is deep-seated ; it is 
likely, even, to aggravate the condition. 

Cases of anaemia which cannot be cured by iron, and which 
fall under the heading of primary anaemia, may be occasionally 
much improved by arsenic. Such are pernicious anaemia, splenic 
leucocythaemia, and Hodgkin's disease ; but often no drug is of 
any avail. In other forms of anaemia, such as chlorosis, arsenic 
may be given, often with benefit, when iron compounds disa- 
gree. Arsenic is, next to quinine, the best antiperiodic we have; 
but it is not nearly so efficacious. It may, however, in the ab- 
sence of quinine, be used for ague, and is especially valuable for 
the anaemia which follows ague, and for neuralgia due to the 
same cause. It often does distinct good in rheumatoid arthritis 
if given for a long while. It is frequently prescribed for chorea, 
particularly in rapidly increasing doses ; but it is difficult to prove 
that the cases get well more quickly than they would without 
any drug. Arsenic has been strongly recommended in asthma 
and in hay fever. For asthma it may be given by the mouth, 
or smoked as cigarettes, made by saturating bibulous paper in a 
solution of fifteen grains of arsenite of potash to an ounce of 
water. It has been given in phthisis, but without benefit. 



1 88 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 



Toxicology. 

Acute Poisoning. — White arsenic is frequently used as a poison. Soon 
after taking it the sufferer experiences faintness, nausea, sickness, epigastric 
pain and tenderness. These symptoms quickly increase. The vomit is brown, 
and often streaked with blood ; the pain is very severe ; there is profuse diar- 
rhoea, with much tenesmus; and there are cramps in the calves of the legs. 
The vomiting becomes violent and incessant ; there is a burning sensation in 
the throat, with intense thirst. Soon severe collapse sets in ; the skin is cold, 
the pulse small and feeble, and the patient dies collapsed. Post mortem. — The 
stomach is intensely inflamed, even if the arsenic has not been taken by the 
mouth, but has been applied in large quantities to cancerous growths. This 
shows that arsenic is excreted from the blood into the stomach. The small 
intestines are also acutely inflamed. 

Treatment. — Wash out the stomach. Give emetics (p. 77), choosing the 
least irritating and least depressing. The stomach must be completely emp- 
tied. Give unlimited quantities of freshly prepared humid peroxide of iron 
(p. 159), or dialyzed iron. If neither of these is handy, give magnesia in 
large amounts, or large doses of castor oil and water. Give brandy or ether 
subcutaneously ; apply hot blankets and bottles to the feet and the abdomen. 

Chronic Poisoning. — Often, when arsenic is taken as a medicine, slight 
symptoms of poisoning are seen. They are loss of appetite, nausea, perhaps 
vomiting, slight abdominal pain, and mild diarrhoea. The eyelids become a 
little puffy, the conjunctivae injected, the eyes and nose water, and there is 
slight headache. These symptoms, of course, show that the dose given is too 
large, and that it must be decreased. 

Arsenic is so often used in the manufacture of all sorts of articles, espe- 
cially wall papers and fabrics, that chronic poisoning by it is frequently seen. 
It is also met with in workers in arsenic, and in persons to whom it has been 
given with intent to murder. The symptoms produced are those already men- 
tioned as present when large doses of arsenic are taken medicinally. 

Long-continued use of arsenic may induce peripheral neuritis ; the chief 
symptoms of arsenical neuritis are herpes zoster, paralysis of the muscles of the 
limbs, especially the extensors of the hands and feet, ataxic gait, severe darting 
pains in the limbs, and rapid muscular atrophy. Several cases are recorded 
in which arsenic has caused general brown pigmentation of the skin. It may 
also give rise to brown pigmentation of patches of psoriasis. After death from 
chronic poisoning, in addition to the gastro-intestinal and nervous lesions, 
there is wide-spread fatty degeneration of most of the organs of the body. It 
is well seen in the liver, kidneys, stomach and muscles, including the heart. 

Repeated doses given to animals abolish the glycogenic function of the 
liver, so that puncture of the floor of the fourth ventricle no longer causes gly- 






ANTIMONY. 189 

cosuria. In frogs poisoned with arsenic the epidermis peels off very easily. 
This is due to degeneration of its lower cells, the degeneration proceeding from 
the lowest layer outwards. 

II. ANTIMONIUM. 

Antimony. Symbol, Sb. Combining weight, 122. (Not officinal.) 

1. ANTIMONII SULPHIDUM.- Native sulphide of Antimony. 
Source. — Purified by fusion, as nearly freed from arsenic as is possible. 

2. ANTIMONII SULPHIDUM PURIFICATUM.— Sulphide of 

Antimony. Sb 2 S 3 . Synonym. — Purified black antimony. 

Source. — It is the sulphide of antimony purified by water of ammonia. 
Characters. — A dark gray powder, insoluble in water or alcohol. 
Impurity. — Silica. 

3. ANTIMONIUM SULPHURATUM.- Sulphurated Antimony. 
A mixture of sulphide of antimony (Sb 2 S 3 ) and oxide of antimony (Sb 2 3 ). 

Source. — Boil black antimony and a solution of soda. 2Sb 2 S 3 -f-6NaHO 
==2Na 3 SbS 4 +Sb 2 3 -[-3H 2 0. Precipitate with sulphuric acid, wash, and dry. 
2Na 3 SbS 4 -h 3 H 2 S0 4 =2Sb 2 S 3 + 3 Na 2 S0 4 +3H 2 S. 

Characters. — A reddish-brown powder, insoluble in watei . 

Dose, Ye to 1 gr. 

Contained in Pilulae Antimonii Composite. 

4. ANTIMONII OXIDUM.— Oxide of Antimony. Sb 2 3 . 
Source.— Pour a solution of chloride of antimony into water. The oxy- 

chloride of antimony is precipitated. SbCl 3 -|-H 2 0=SbOC14-2HCl. The 
precipitate is treated with carbonate of sodium, and the result washed and dried. 
2SbOCl + Na 2 C0 3 =Sb 2 3 -f 2NaCl+ C0 2 . 

Characters. — A heavy grayish-white powder, almost insoluble in water. 

Impurities. — Higher oxides. 

Dose, 1 to 4 gr. 

Preparation. 

Pulvis Antimonialis. — Synonym, — James' powder. Oxide of 
antimony, 33 ; precipitated phosphate of calcium, 67. 
Dose, 3 to 15 gr. 

5. ANTIMONII ET POTASSII TARTRAS.— Tartrate of An- 
timony and Potassium. (KSbO,C 4 H 4 6 ) 2 -J-H 2 0. Synonym. — Tartar emetic. 

Source. — Make a paste of oxide of antimony (Sb 2 3 ) with acid tartrate 
of potassium and water. Let it stand twenty- four hours, boil in water, and 
crystallize. 2KH,C 4 H 4 6 -f Sb 2 3 =(KSbO,C 4 H 4 6 ) 2 +H 2 0. 

Characters. — Colorless transparent rhombic crystals. Solubility* — I in 
17 of cold, I in 3 of boiling water. The solution is faintly acid. 



I90 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Incompatibles. — Gallic and tannic acids, most astringent infusions, alka- 
lies, lead salts. 

Impurities. — Acid tartrate of potassium, 

Dose, T L to y 2 gr. (diaphoretic), ]/ 2 to 1 gr. (cardiac depressant), 1 to 
2 gr. (emetic). 

Preparations. 

1. Vinum Antimonii. — Tartrate of Antimony and Potassium, 4; 
boiling distilled water, 60; stronger white wine to 1000. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

2. Syrupus Scillae Compositus. — Synony?n — Hive Syrup. Squill 
and senega, of each 1 20 ; tartrate of antimony and potassium, 3 ; sugar, 
1 200 ; precipitated phosphate of calcium, 9 ; water to 2000. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

Action of Antimonial Compounds. 

External. — Antimonial compounds are powerful external 
irritants. The Liquor Antimonii Chloridi of the B. P., which 
is a solution of chloride of antimony in hydrochloric acid, is a 
severe caustic. Tartar emetic produces a pustular eruption 
at the point of application. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — All compounds of antimony 
are powerful irritants, internally as well as externally ; the action 
of tartar emetic is best known. The first result of swallowing 
this is vomiting. The early acts of vomiting are due to the 
direct action of the drug on the wall of the stomach, but it is 
quickly absorbed, and by its action on the medulla it also pro- 
duces sickness; thus the vomiting is continued for some time. It 
will produce vomiting when injected into the blood, chiefly by its 
action on the medulla - for it will act if the stomach is replaced 
by a bladder, — but also because some of it is excreted into the 
stomach. In large doses tartar emetic is irritant to the intestine. 

Heart. — Antimony acts upon man as upon the lower animals. 
It is a powerful cardiac depressant, diminishing both the fre- 
quency and the force of the beat of the heart. Experiments on 
animals have shown that the final stoppage takes place in diastole, 
and that the chief action of antimony is that of a direct depres- 
sant to the cardiac muscle itself. Of course, the cardiac depres- 



ANTIMONY. I9I 

si on causes the arterial pressure to fall, but part of this effect is 
due to a coincident action upon some portion of the vaso-motor 
system ; the probability being that antimony, by paralyzing the 
muscular coat of the arteries, relaxes them. 

Respiration. — Respiration is depressed, the movements become 
weaker, and inspiration is shortened, but expiration is prolonged. 
Finally, the pauses become very long and the movements very 
irregular. The cause of this is not known ; probably it is very 
complex. 

Nervous and muscular systems. — Here also antimony acts as 
a powerful depressant, especially to the spinal cord, and to a 
less extent to the brain ; hence moderate doses cause a feeling of 
languor, inaptitude for mental exertion, and sleepiness. Experi- 
ments on animals show that after the administration of large doses 
of antimony reflex movement is soon lost, and that this is due to 
a depressing effect on the sensory part of the spinal cord. This 
depressant influence is felt also in the muscles, and hence antimony 
will relieve spasm, but whether it does so by direct action on the 
muscles or by acting on the nervous system is doubtful. 

Temperature. — Moderate doses of antimony have little influ- 
ence on the temperature, but large doses cause a considerable 
fall, due, no doubt, in the main to the circulatory depression, but 
also, it is said, to a direct action in decreasing the amount of heat 
produced. 

Excretion. — Antimony is excreted by many channels. We 
have seen that part of its emetic effect is due to its excretion into 
the stomach. It passes out by the bronchial mucous membrane 
increasing the amount of secretion, and thus acting as an expec- 
torant. On the skin its action is that of a diaphoretic. This 
is chiefly a secondary result of the depression of the circulation, 
but is possibly in part a direct local effect. In frogs the action on 
the skin is very like that of arsenic, but antimony softens rather 
than detaches the epidermis, which thus becomes a jelly-like mass. 
It is excreted in the bile, and aids its flow; therefore it is a 
cholagogue. 

In passing through the kidneys it may be slightly diuretic, but 



I92 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

this depends upon the amount of perspiration produced by it. If 
its use is continued for some time it will cause, like arsenic, fatty- 
degeneration, especially of the liver, and abolition of the hepatic 
glycogenic function. 

Therapeutics of Salts of Antimony. 

External. — A. solution of the chloride of antimony, known 
as butter of antimony, has been used as a caustic, but its employ- 
ment has been abandoned, as the sore produced is difficult to heal. 
Many years ago an ointment of tartar emetic was commonly ap- 
plied as a counter-irritant, but it causes much pain, and is now 
seldom used. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Tartar emetic is not to be 
recommended as an emetic, for the action is slow, and the general 
depression of emetic doses is great. For this reason it should 
never be given to produce purgation. The only cases in which 
it is permissible are those in which an emetic is required for laryn- 
gitis, bronchitis, or some other acute inflammatory condition of 
the respiratory tract, for then its depressant action on the cir- 
culation may perhaps be beneficial, but usually ipecacuanha is 
preferable. 

Circulation. — Antimony was formerly largely employed, espe- 
cially in combination with aconite, to reduce the force and fre- 
quency of the pulse in all sorts of febrile conditions \ but this is 
now generally thought unnecessary. If it is to be used, it is 
especially indicated in respiratory affections ; for then its expec- 
torant effect may be valuable. 

Respiration. — It has been very much given for the early stage 
of acute bronchitis; but certainly it should not be continued 
after a free secretion of bronchial mucus has been set up by it. 
After that it is, on account of its depressing influence, an unde- 
sirable expectorant. 

Nervous and muscular systems. — Its use as a sedative in delir- 
ium tremens is now abandoned, and the introduction of chloro- 
form has made it unnecessary to employ tartar emetic to relax 
muscular spasm in hernise, dislocations, etc. 



CHROMIUM. I93 

Remote effects.— Occasionally it is given in fevers for its dia- 
phoretic influence, and for its slight antipyretic action. Some- 
times it is ordered as a cholagogue; but because of its powerful 
depressant action, it is less used as a medicine than formerly. 

Toxicology. 

Acute Poisoning. — The symptoms are very like those of arsenical poi- 
soning (p. 188). Post mortem. — The gastro-intestinal irritation is very simi- 
lar, but it is not nearly so marked. 

Treatment. — Unless the vomiting is very free, apomorphine subcuta- 
neously, or sulphate of zinc by the mouth or the stomach pump, may be used. 
Also frequent doses of half a drachm of tannic or gallic acid dissolved in 
water, strong tea or coffee, mucilaginous drinks, and stimulants subcutaneously. 
Hot water bottles and warm blankets may be necessary. 

Chronic poisoning is not sufficiently common to call for notice here. 

III. CHROMIUM. 

Symbol, Cr. Combining weight, 52.5. (Not officinal.) 

Acidum Chromicum. — Chromic Acid. Cr0 3 . Synonym. — Chromic 
anhydride. 

Source. — Dissolve bichromate of potassium in sulphuric acid and water, 
decant from the acid sulphate of potassium, heat with more sulphuric acid, cool 
and crystallize. 

Characters. — Small crimson needles, very deliquescent, soluble in 
water. Readily yields oxygen, and will, therefore, easily explode. It does 
so with either glycerine or alcohol. 

Action. 

External. — In consequence of its oxidizing power, chromic 
acid is a powerful deodorant and disinfectant. It coagulates 
albumen and oxidizes organic matter, and is therefore a powerful 
caustic. 

Internal. — None is known. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — As a lotion, 1 in 40, chromic acid has been 

used for its disinfectant properties to wash foul ulcers and sores, 

and also as a local application for ozaena, gonorrhoea, leucorrhcea 

and bad ulceration of the mouth. The liquor of the B. P., 

17 



194 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

which is i part of chromic acid in 3 of water, is occasionally 
used as a caustic to destroy condylomata, etc. Compounds of 
chromium are not given internally. 

The remaining groups of the inorganic drugs are non- 
metallic. 



GROUP VIII. 

Containing Phosphorus only. 

PHOSPHORUS. 

Symbol, P. Combining weight, 31. (Officinal.) 

Source. — Treat bone ash or phosphate of lime with sulphuric acid and 
water, filter and evaporate. Ca 3 (P0 4 ) 2 +2H 2 S0 4 =^CaH 4 (F0 4 ) 2 -f- 2CaS0 4 
Heat the acid phosphate of calcium thus formed with charcoal. The heat first 
forms calcic metaphosphate. CaH 4 (P0 3 ) 2 =Ca(P0 3 ) 2 -f 2H 2 0. This is acted 
on by the charcoal thus : 3Ca(P0 3 \+ ioC=Ca 3 (P0 4 ) 2 +ioCO+P 4 . 

Characters. — A wax-like solid, freely soluble in bisulphide of carbon, 
sparingly soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform, I in 60 in olive oil or melted 
fat, insoluble in water ; luminous in the dark. Must be kept under water, as it 
oxidizes and takes fire very easily. Heated with hydrogen it forms red or 
amorphous phosphorus, which is non-poisonous. 

Dose, T io to 2V S T - Never given alone. 

Preparations, 

1. Acidum Phosphoricum. — 50 per cent, of Orthophosphoric 
Acid (H 3 P0 4 ) in water. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid, of sp. gr. 1.347, used to 
manufacture the diluted acid. 

2. Acid Phosphoricum Dilutum. — 20 parts of the acid in 80 
parts of water. 

Characters. — Resembles the phosphoric acid. Sp. gr. 1.057. 
Contains 10 per cent, of orthophosphoric acid. 
Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. Oleum Phosphoratum. — I part of well-dried phosphorus in 
sufficient quantity of almond oil, which must first be heated to 250 F. 
and filtered to remove water and organic matter, which would otherwise 
oxidize the phosphorus, adding 9 parts of strong ether. Strength. — 
I to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 



PHOSPHORUS. I95 

4. Pilulse Phosphori. — Dissolve 1 part Phosphorus in 50 parts 
chloroform ; add althea, 80 parts ; and acacia, 20 parts ; with 20 parts 
water, and 40 parts glycerine to make 100 parts. Strength. — 1 gr. of 
pill contains T ^ gr. of phosphorus. 

Dose, 1 to 5 pills. 

Action. 

The only known action of minute doses of phosphorus is that 
in animals the spongy tissue in the long and short bones is 
thickened, and the compact tissue is rendered more dense. 
Phosphorus enters the blood as phosphorus, and probably acts as 
such, not as phosphoric acid. See Toxicology. 

Therapeutics. 
It has been used in osteomalacia, in rickets, and in cases of 
ununited fracture, but for rickets at least it is a very inferior remedy. 
As its action is unknown, it has been given in numbers of diseases 
w T hose pathology is unknown, but without benefit. 

Toxicology. 

Acute Poisoning. —Phosphorus is often taken, or administered 
criminally, either as match heads or vermin paste. For the first few hours 
there are no effects, then the following symptoms of gas tro -intestinal irritation 
set in: Nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting; the vomited matters smell of 
phosphorus and are luminous. There is some general depression. Diarrhoea 
is rare. The patient may die of collapse, but far more frequently these symp- 
toms all pass off, and he appears quite well, But after three or four days jaun- 
dice is noticed, and this soon becomes very deep ; there is now great prostration, 
the liver is enlarged, the abdomen distended, and he complains of intense thirst. 
Vomiting of altered blood and diarrhoea with bloody stools may be observed, 
but these two symptoms are not severe. The skin is cold, the pulse feeble and 
rapid. The urine is scanty, highly colored, albuminous, bile-stained, and per- 
haps bloody, and it may contain bile acids and crystals of leucin and tyrosin. 
Muscular twitchings occur, the patient becomes comatose and dies. Post mor- 
tem — Two results are very striking. (1) Fatty degeneration (thus phosphorus 
resembles arsenic and antimony), affecting principally the liver, in which it is 
very marked ; and if the patient lives long enough there may be a diminution 
in size of the organ. Fatty degeneration is also found in the muscles, kidneys, 
and gastro-intestinal tract. (2) Haemorrhages are seen in many places, and 
ecchymoses are sometimes very abundant. If they occur in the gastric and 



I96 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

intestinal mucous membranes they may give rise to the erroneous belief that 
evidences of acute gastro-intestinal irritation can be found at death. The symp- 
toms of phosphorous poisoning in many respects resemble those of acute yellow 
atrophy of the liver. 

Treatment. — Thoroughly empty the stomach by a stomach pump or by 
washing it out. Give sulphate of copper as an emetic (see Copper, p. 152), three 
grains every few minutes till vomiting is induced, then every 15 minutes; also 
half a drachm of oil of turpentine (q. v.) every half hour. A full dose of a 
saline purge may be administered. No oils or fats should on any account be 
given. Percy (Trans. Am. Med. Ass'n., 1872, v.) found that old oil of turpentine 
which contains oxygen, if administered soon after taking the poison and before 
it was absorbed, was an antidote (experiments upon dogs). 

Chronic Poisoning. — This, which used to be seen in those who worked 
among phosphorus fumes, is now of great rarity. The chief symptoms are 
those of gastro-intestinal irritation and necrosis of the jaw. 

1. CALCII HYPOPHOSPHIS.— Hypophosphite *of Calcium. Ca 
H 4 (P0 2 ) 2 . 

Source. — Heat phosphorus with slaked lime and water. Then pass car- 
bonic acid gas through the liquid to remove the excess of lime. The hypophos- 
phite crystallizes out of the solution. 3Ca(HO) 2 4-8P4-6H 2 0=3CaH 4 (P0 2 ) 2 . 

Characters. — White pearly, six-sided prisms, with a bitter nauseous taste. 
Solubility. — 1 in 6*8 of cold water. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 

2. SODII HYPOPHOSPHIS.— Hypophosphite of Sodium. Na 
PH 2 2 , H2O. 

Source. — Add carbonate of sodium to a solution of hypophosphite of lime 
and evaporate. Ca(PH 2 2 ) 2 +Na a C0 8 =CaC0 8 +2NaPH 2 2 . 

Characters. — Small, colorless, rectangular plates or white granular salt 
with a sweetish saline taste. Solubility. — 1 in 1 of water. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

3. POTASSII HYPOPHOSPHIS.— Hypophosphite of Potassium. 
KPH 2 2 . 

Characters. — White, opaque, confused crystalline masses, or a white 
granular powder, having a sharp, saline, slightly bitter taste. Solubility. — In 
0.6 water. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

4. FERRI HYPOPHOSPHIS.— Hypophosphite of Iron. 
See Iron, p. 159. 

All of the hypophosphites are liable to be contaminated with the alkaline 
carbonate or to contain a free alkali. 






HYPOPHOSPHITES. 1 97 

5. SYRUPUS HYPOPHOSPHITUM.— Syrup of the Hypophos- 
phites. 

The hypophosphite of calcium, 35 parts; of sodium, 12 parts; of potas- 
sium, 12 parts; with citric acid, I part; spirit of lemon, 2 parts; sugar, 500 
parts; and sufficient water to make 1000 parts. 

Dose, 1 to 8 fl. dr. 

6. SYRUPUS HYPOPHOSPHITUM CUM FERRO.— Syrup of 
hypophosphites with iron. A one per cent, solution of lactate of iron in the 
syrup of the hypophosphites. 

Dose, 1 to 8 fl. dr. 

7. ZINCI PHOSPHIDUM.— Phosphide of Zinc. Zn 3 P 2 . 
Source. — From vapor of phosphorus in a current of dry hydrogen over 

heated zinc. 

Characters. — Minutely crystalline, friable fragments, having a metallic 
lustre on the fractured surfaces, or a grayish-black powder, having a faint odor 
and taste of phosphorus, insoluble in water or alcohol. 

Dose, T V to i gr. 

Uses. — Phosphide of zinc has the same effects physiologically and thera- 
peutically as does phosphorus. 

The Therapeutics of the Hypophosphites of Ferrum, 
Calcium, Sodium, and Potassium. 

These drugs have.been recommended for phthisis. Although 
in many cases there is no satisfactory evidence of their value, yet 
they are extensively used and are the basis of a large number of 
proprietary preparations. 

They are generally tonic and certainly constitute a safer form 
for the administration of phosphorus. Following Churchill they 
should be of chemical purity, neutral in reaction, the presence of 
free alkali or alkaline carbonates quickly giving rise to an atonic 
dyspepsia. The preparation, the syrup of the hypophosphites is 
faulty in that each salt has a peculiar property, yet the final result 
being due to the hypophosphite, and its beneficial effect upon 
nutrition. In the early stages of phthsis (infiltration) the sodium 
salt should be administered and the sodium salt alone, if excava- 
tion is present the calcium salt is indicated, and that alone, pro- 
vided that it does not too suddenly check expectoration, when 



I98 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

the sodium salt should be resumed. The maximum daily quantity 
is 7 grains. 

The potassium salt is a valuable expectorant in chronic bronchitis 
but it has a very limited usefulness in phthisis. The hypophos- 
phites, when administered intelligently, will improve nutrition 
and relieve some of the symptoms of phthisis. If administered 
in too large doses, or simultaneously with other remedies as arsenic, 
stimulants, strychnine, cod liver oil, are likely to produce head- 
aches, dyspepsia, and fail to cause improvement The objection 
to the Syrup, U. S. P., namely the use of the salts in combination, 
applies to nearly all of the proprietary preparations, most of which 
contain impure drugs and are not scientific combinations. The 
syrup of hypophosphite of iron is valuable as a reconstructive. 



GROUP IX. 

Chlorine, Iodine, Bromine. 

These elements, which are chemically so closely allied, are all of them 
powerful disinfectants and irritants. 

I. CHLORINE. 

Symbol, CI. Combining weight, 35.5. 

This gas is not officinal under its own name, but is is officially obtained 
from two sources of it, viz. hydrochloric acid and chlorinated lime. 

1. AQUA CHLORL— Solution of Chlorine. 

Source. — Pass washed chlorine gas into water. The gas is obtained by 
heating diluted hydrochloric acid and black oxide of manganese. /j.HCl-[-Mn 
2 =Cl 2 +MnCl 2 +2H 2 0. 

Characters. — A yellowish-green liquid, smelling strongly of chlorine. 

Incompatibles. — Salts of lead and silver. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr., diluted with water. Rarely given internally. 

Acidum Nitro hydrochloricum Dilutum contains free chlorine.. 

2. CALX CHLORATA.- Chloride of lime. CaCl 2 2 ,CaCl 2 . Syno- 
nym. — Bleaching powder. It may be regarded either as a compound of hypo- 
chlorite of calcium and chloride of calcium, or as one of lime and chlorine. 

Source. — Pass chlorine gas over slaked lime. 2CaH 2 2 -f-2Cl 2 =CaCl 2 
2 ,CaCl 2 -f-2H 2 0. 



CHLORINE I99 

Characters. — A dull white powder, smelling of chlorine, which it evolves 
on addition of an acid or on exposure to air, for it absorbs carbonic acid gas. 
Contains at least 25 per cent, of available chlorine. 

3. LIQUOR SODJE CHLORATE.— Solution of Chlorinated Soda. 
Soda. NaCl,NaC10. Synonym. — Labarraque's disinfecting solution. 

Source. — A solution of sodium carbonate and chlorinated lime. 

Characters. — A clear, pale greenish liquid with an odor of chlorine. It 
is a mixture of chloride, hypochlorite, and carbonate of sodium. Sp. gr. 1.044. 
Contains at least 2 per cent, available chlorine. 

Dose, yi to 2 fl. dr. 

Action of Chlorine. 

External. — Chlorine is one of the most powerful disinfec- 
tants and deodorizers. It has a very great affinity for hydrogen, 
and hence decomposes compounds which contain hydrogen, oxy- 
gen generally being set free, Chlorine is a very active and 
destructive irritant to the skin and mucous membranes. 

Internal. — It is hardly ever given internally. If it were, it 
would become converted into chlorides. 

Therapeutics of Chlorine. 

External. — Chlorine is largely used in the form of chlori- 
nated lime to disinfect privies, drains, urinals, &c. It may be 
employed also to disinfect rooms after infectious diseases. All 
metals or articles such as fabrics, likely to be bleached, should be 
covered up or removed; the windows and chimneys should be 
pasted up. The gas can be evolved from common salt, black 
oxide of manganese, and sulphuric acid. The door is then shut, 
and the cracks around it are pasted over with paper. Chlorine 
water is sometimes employed as a wash for foul ulcers and discharges. 

Internal. — Chlorine is only used internally in the form of a 
wash for the mouth. The vapor gives rise to great irritation of 
the respiratory tract, and should never be inhaled. 

II. IODUM. 

Iodine. Symbol, I. Combining weight, 126.6 (Officinal.) 

Source. — Obtained from the ashes of seaweed and from mineral iodides 
and iodates. 



200 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Bluish-black, rhombic plates, with a peculiar odor and 
dark color, giving a violet vapor on heat. Solubility. — I in 7000 of water, I 
in 1 1 rectified spirit, I in 4 ether, slightly in glycerine, freely in a solution of 
iodide of potassium or chloride of sodium. 

Incompatibles. — Ammonia, metallic salts, mineral acids, alkaloids. 

Impurities. — Iodide of cyanogen, iron, water. 

Preparations, 

1. Liquor Iodi Compositus. — Lugol's Solution. Iodine, 5; 
iodide of potassium, 10; water, 85. Strength. — I in 20. 

Dose, 1 to 10 m. 

2. Tinctura Iodi. — Iodine, 8 ; Alcohol, 92. Strength. — 8 per cent. 
Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

3. Unguentum Iodi. — Iodine, 4; Iodide of Potassium, 1 ; water, 
2 ; benzoinated lard, 93 . Strength. — 4 per cent. 

Action. 

External. — The actions of iodine applied externally are the 
same as those of chlorine, that is to say, it is powerfully disin- 
fectant and irritant. The latter action is the most important. 
Iodine applied to the skin produces a yellow stain, which can be 
removed by an alkali or hyposulphite of sodium. At the same 
time it causes a sensation of heat and burning, dilatation of the 
vessels (rubefaction), and some oedematous swelling. Prepara- 
tions of iodine are rarely used strong enough to produce more 
powerful irritation than this. The external application of them 
probably reflexly dilates the vessels of the subjacent organs, and 
this may explain their use as counter-irritants. If they are too 
strong, the irritation set up by them will proceed to the formation 
of vesicles, and even pustules, and deep inflammation with scar- 
ring. They usually destroy the superficial cuticle, so that after 
the use of them the skin peels. They are parasiticide to the 
various vegetable and animal parasites which infest the skin. 

Internal. — Iodine, when taken internally, is converted into 
an iodide. Minute doses of the tincture occasionally stop vom- 
iting. The vapor is very irritating to the respiratory passages. 



IODINE. 201 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Iodine is rarely employed for its antiseptic 
properties, as chlorine is cheaper. The preparations of iodine 
are in constant use as irritants and counter-irritants. Usually 
one or two coats of the liniment, (B. P., which contains iodine, 
5 ; iodide of potassium, 2; glycerine, 1 \ spirit, 40); lightly painted 
on the skin suffice ; if more is used, the inflammation is too se- 
vere. If it causes pain, it may be washed off with a solution of 
iodide of potassium. The ointment, tincture and compound 
liquor are much milder than the liniment. Preparations of iodine 
are frequently used as counter-irritants for chronic inflammation 
of joints, for pleurisy, chilblains, periostitis, and many other pur- 
poses. The mild preparations of iodine are applied over chroni- 
cally inflamed lymphatic glands when the cause of the swelling 
cannot be removed. A decolorized tincture of iodine is pre- 
pared, consisting of iodine dissolved in alcohol, and decolor- 
ized by a strong solution of ammonia. Its strength is 1 in 
40, nearly, and has the advantage of not staining the skin ; but 
it contains no iodine, for iodide and iodate of ammonia are 
formed. Therefore it is a much milder irritant than other iodine 
preparations. Any effect it may have is due to excess of ammo- 
nia. For its irritant effect the officinal tincture may be injected 
into a hydrocele or a cyst to cause adhesive inflammation, and it 
has been injected into joints, abscesses, and the pleural cavity 
after empyema ; but in such cases great care must be taken that 
the inflammation induced is not too severe, and this treatment is 
now very rarely used, for the cavities, being kept antiseptic, heal 
up without it. The tincture, or, if it can be borne, the liquor, 
is often used as an antiparasitic for ringworm. Coster's paste, 
which is sometimes employed for this disease, consists of 120 gr. 
of iodine dissolved in 1 fl. oz. of light oil of wood tar. Morton's 
fluid, which is used as an injection for spina bifida, consists of 
iodine 10 grains, potassium iodide 30 grains, glycerine 1 fl. oz. 

Internal. — The vapor of iodine is occasionally inhaled for 
diseases of the lungs ; but it probably does more harm than good. 
One or two minims of the tincture in half an ounce of water are 
18 



202 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICE. 

often given, quite empirically, every half hour in cases of vomit- 
ing, and sometimes with distinct benefit. 

i. POTASSII IODIDUM.— Iodide of Potassium. KI. 

Source. — Dissolve iodine in liquor potassse. 6I4-6KHO— 5KI + KIO3 
-f-3H 2 0. Evaporate and heat the residue with charcoal; the oxygen of the 
iodate is carried off as carbonic oxide. Dissolve in boiling water, filter, wash 
and crystallize. KI0 3 +3G=KI+3CO. 

Characters. — Whitish, cubical crystals having a saline taste, without 
odor if pure, but often smelling of iodine. Solubility. — 1 in 0.8 of water; I in 
1 8 of alcohol ; I in 3 of glycerine. 

Incompatibles. — Subnitrate of bismuth,' sweet spirits of nitre, liquorice, 
preparations containing starch. 

Impurities. — Iodates. 

Dose, 2 to 60 gr. > 

Preparation, 

1. Unguentum Potassii Iodidi. — Iodide of potassium, 12; hy- 
posulphite of sodium, I ; water, 6 ; benzoinated lard, 8 1 . 
Iodide of potassium is contained as a solvent in all pharmacopceial prepa- 
rations of iodine. 

2. SODII IODIDUM.— Iodide of Sodium. Nal. 

Source. — Made from a solution of soda, as iodide of potassium is made 
from a solution of potash. 

Characters. — A white, deliquescent, crystalline powder, with a saline 
taste. Freely soluble in water, glycerine and alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr.,' or more. 

3. AMMONII IODIDUM.— Iodide of Ammonia. NH 4 I. 
Characters. — A white granular salt in minute, crystalline cubes, very 

deliquescent. Solubility. — In I part of water, 9 parts of alcohol. 
Impurities. — Iodates. 
Dose, 2 to 10 gr., or more. 

4. SYRUPUS ACIDI HYDRIODICI.— Syrup of Hydriodic Acid 
contains I per cent, of absolute hydriodic acid. 

Source. — 10 parts of iodine, 80 parts of alcohol, 150 parts of syrup, 500 
parts of sugar, 5 parts of spirit of orange, and distilled water to 1 000 parts. 

Characters. — A transparent, colorless liquid, of sweetish, acidulous taste 
and an acid reaction. Sp. gr. 1.300. 

Dose, X to I fl - dr - 






iodides of potassium and sodium. 203 

Action of Iodides of Potassium and Sodium. 

External. — They have none. They do not irritate, nor are 
they absorbed by the unbroken skin. 

Internal. — It is often taught that iodine (which is supposed 
to be converted into iodide of sodium in the alimentary canal), 
and iodide of potassium (which also becomes iodide of sodium), 
both have the same internal action ; but free iodine is much 
more irritant to the gastro-intestinal tract than either the potas- 
sium or the sodium salt, and it is said to produce sexual excite- 
ment; but iodides have not this action. Therapeutically con- 
sidered, the iodides of sodium, ammonia and potassium also 
produce entirely different results from iodine. It is not known 
how they act, nor even in what form they are absorbed. They 
have in certain diseases a profound effect on nutrition, and it is 
said that they cause an increased elimination of uric acid. Oc- 
casionally considerable general depression is produced by large 
doses of iodide of potassium ; but this is probably due to the 
potassium, and not to the iodine, and in this case the syrup of 
hydriodic acid can be substituted. The form in which iodides 
are eliminated is not known ; but when they are taken in excess, 
a series of symptoms, due no doubt to their elimination by the 
skin and mucous membranes, takes place. They are frequently 
seen in patients taking iodides, and they are known as Iodism. 

lodism. — The patient complains of heavy pain over the 
frontal sinus, running at the nose, sore throat, increased secre- 
tion of saliva, and an eruption on the skin, consisting of patches 
of erythema. The inflammation about the fauces may spread to 
the gums or down the trachea, setting up laryngitis, tracheitis 
and bronchitis. The susceptibility of people to poisoning by 
iodides varies very much. 

Therapeutics of Iodides of Potassium and Sodium. 

The most important use of iodides is for syphilis ; their value 
for the primary and secondary stages is comparatively slight, but 
they are invaluable for the tertiary stages, as they often cause the 
rapid absorption of nodes, gummata -and other syphilitic depos- 



204 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

its. The pharmacopoeial dose may often be exceeded: patients 
sometimes take two, three, or even four drachms a day. Large 
doses are especially used in syphilis of the nervous system. 

Chronic rheumatoid arthritis is often treated, and sometimes 
with benefit, by small doses of iodide of potassium continued for 
a long while, but probably iodide of iron is more useful. Gonor- 
rhoeal rheumatism is often treated with iodide of potassium. It 
frequently aids the absorption of chronic inflammatory products, 
even when they are not syphilitic. Therefore certain forms of 
joint disease, of pleurisy and of pulmonary consolidation some- 
times yield to treatment by this drug. The attempt has been 
made to cure aneurisms which are inaccessible to surgery by 
giving iodide of potassium for long periods, for it is thought 
that it aids the coagulation of blood in them ; but as at the same 
time the patient is always kept in bed, it is difficult to say how 
much of any improvement that may happen to take place is due 
to the iodide. It is a valuable expectorant, particularly the 
ammonium salt, and sometimes cures cases of bronchitis when 
other remedies have failed. Lately, chronic Bright' s disease has 
been largely treated with this drug. Lardaceous disease of the 
kidneys and other organs is benefited by it. The potash salt is 
recommended for asthma, and in some cases does much good. 
It is occasionally given to decrease the secretion of milk. 

Iodide of potassium causes an increased excretion of both 
lead and mercury if they exist in the body, and it is therefore of 
great value in cases of chronic poisoning by these metals. Iodide 
of sodium is not so much used, but it probably produces the same 
effects as the potassium salts, but does not cause so much depression. 

III. BROMUM. 

Bromine. Symbol, Br. Combining weight, 79.8. (Officinal.) 

Source. — Obtained from sea water and saline springs. 
Characters. — A darkish, brownish-red, volatile liquid, with a strong and 
disagreeable odor. Sp. gr. 2.990. Solubility. — I in 33 of water. 
Impurity. — Iodine. 

Action. 

Like that of chlorine and iodine. It is rarely used in medicine. 



BROMIDES. 205 

1. POTASSII BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Potassium. KBr. 
Source. — Made from bromine, liquor potassae, and charcoal in the same 

way as iodide of potassium. 

Characters. — Colorless cubic crystals, readily soluble in water, with a 
saline taste. 

Incompatibles. — Acids, acid salts, metallic salts. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

2. SODII BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Sodium. NaBr. 
Source. — Made with soda as bromide of potassium is made from potash. 
Characters. — A granular white powder or small monoclinic crystals. 

Solubility. — In about 12 of water. 

Incompatibles. — Those of potassium bromide. 
Dose, 10 to 60 gr. 

3. AMMONII BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Ammonium. NH 4 Br. 
Source. — Made by neutralizing hydrobromic acid with liquor ammoniae 

and crystallizing. 

Characters. — Colorless prismatic crystals with a pungent saline taste. 
Solubility. — I in 1.5 of water. 

Incompatibles. — Acids, acid salts, and spirit of nitrous ether. 

Impurities. — Iodides; free bromine. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

4. LITHII BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Lithia. LiBr. 
Characters. — A white granular salt very deliquescent, odorless, with a 

very sharp and somewhat bitter taste. Solubility. — Very soluble in water and 
in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

5. CALCII BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Calcium. CaBr 2 . 
Source. — From bromide of ammonium and milk of lime, by filtration and 

evaporation. 

Characters. — A white granular salt, very deliquescent, odorless, having 
a pungent, saline, and bitter taste, and a neutral reaction. Soluble in 0.7 part 
of water and I part of alcohol. 

Dose, 15 to 30 gr. 

6. ZINCI BROMIDUM.— Bromide of Zinc. ZnBr 2 . 
Source. — From zinc dissolved in a solution of hydrobromic acid. 
Characters. — A white granular powder, very deliquescent, odorless, 

having a sharp, saline and metallic taste, and a neutral reaction. Very soluble 
in water and alcohol. 
Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 



206 inorganic materia medica. 

Action of Bromides. 

External. — They have none. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Solutions of any of the first 
three bromides, frequently painted on the throat, diminish its 
sensibility. Medicinal doses have no othe reffect on the alimentary 
canal. All bromides are quickly converted into bromide of 
sodium in the stomach and intestines, and they are readily ab- 
sorbed. 

Nervous system. — Bromides are powerful depressants to 
the nervous system, this action of the potash salt being 
most marked. Thus, if an animal be given large doses of any of 
them, irritation of the cortical motor areas, which before easily 
excited movements, fails to do so. Experiments also show that 
the reflex excitability of the cord is considerably diminished, and 
that the activity of the sensory mechanism is also impaired, for 
large doses of bromides given to frogs cause cutaneous anaesthe- 
sia. In man at least, not only the cortical motor area, but the 
brain as a whole is depressed, therefore these drugs are powerful 
hypnotics. It is probable that in addition to the brain and 
spinal cord the peripheral nerves are depressed, so that bromides 
are well worthy to be called powerful nervous depressants. The 
activity of the muscles is also diminished, not only by the action 
of the drugs on the nervous system, but by their direct action on 
them. 

Circulation. — Here also bromides are depressant; large doses 
exert a direct paralyzing influence on the heart, lessening the 
force and the frequency of the beat and producing stop- 
page in diastole; the potash having the greatest effect, the soda 
salt has less influence ; the ammonia salt influencing the heart but 
little. They are said to cause vaso-motor spasm, but the evidence 
of this is very unsatisfactory. Toxic doses produce a fall of 
temperature; this is probably in some way secondary to the de- 
pression of the circulation. 

Respiration is slightly depressed by bromides. 

Metabolism. — The amount of carbonic acid exhaled is greatly 
decreased by taking large doses of bromides. The amount of 



BROMIDES. 207 

urine is increased ; particularly after the use of the lithium salt, the 
coloring matters, the sulphur, and the nitrogen in it are in- 
creased; but the phosphorus is decreased. 

Sexual organs. — If bromides are taken for a long time a fail- 
ure of sexual vigor is produced, and ultimately there is a great 
lessening of the sexual appetite. Bromides are therefore anaphro- 
disiacs. 

Elimination. — Bromides are rapidly eliminated by the kid- 
neys, skin, saliva, intestinal mucous membrane, bronchial mucous 
membrane, and in milk. 

Bromism. — If bromides are taken for too long a period, a 
series of symptoms of poisoning, to which the above name has 
been given, may appear. The hydrobromic acid, although con- 
taining a larger proportion of bromine, rarely gives rise to bromism. 
The earliest of them is a rash, consisting of red papules, chiefly 
on the face and back, exactly resembling some forms of acne. 
This is probably the result of the excretion of bromide by the 
skin. The next symptoms are a general lowering of the cutane- 
ous sensibility and also of that of the pharynx, then there is 
diminution of sexual power, the patient becomes low-spirited, 
easily fatigued, unfit for work, and his intellect is dulled. There 
may be a little conjunctivitis, and some increased secretion from 
the bronchi. 

Bromide of potassium owes its action largely to the bromine 
in it, but probably also, to a less extent, to the potassium. In 
man at least, the higher functions of the brain are depressed be- 
fore the lower, and these again before the spinal. Thus the de- 
pression takes place in regular order from above downwards, in 
the reverse order of the physiological development of the func- 
tions, and this is commonly the case with many drugs (see Law 
of Dissolution, p. 92). 

Those who take bromides habitually find themselves unable 
to sleep without them, and their intellect becomes obscured. 
These bad effects are intensified by the fact that gradually larger 
doses are required to produce sleep, and thus the unfortunate suf- 
ferer becomes more and more a slave to the drug. 



2os inorganic materia medica. 

Therapeutics of Bromides. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Formerly the back of the 
throat was painted with a solution of a bromide before a 
laryngeal examination, but now cocaine is employed for this 
purpose. 

Nervous system. — Because of their depressing effect bromides 
are largely used for many nervous diseases. They are the most 
valuable drugs we have for the treatment of epilepsy, acting no 
doubt by diminishing the excitability of the cerebral cortex. 
They rarely cure, but often greatly diminish the number of fits. 
It is impossible to say in any given case whether bromides will 
do good, therefore they must be tried in all; petit mal is more 
difficult to influence than grand mal. The next most common 
use of bromides is as hypnotics. They are most useful when 
there is no organic cause to explain the insomnia, and therefore 
they are not employed when pain keeps the patient awake, but 
are given with great benefit in the insomnia of overwork, worry, 
or that connected with the climacteric period. The sleep in- 
duced is quiet and refreshing, without dreams, and therefore these 
drugs are of great value in nightmare, and in the night-screaming 
of children, which may be regarded as allied to nightmare. Also 
because of their depressant effect on the nervous system they are 
given in migraine, and often they are the only drugs which do 
any good for the intense headache of this disease. Large doses, 
often a drachm at a time, are given in delirium tremens, espe- 
cially in combination with chloral, and sometimes the patient 
seems quieter for this treatment. Not only the insomnia, but the 
other nervous symptoms that are common at the climacteric per- 
iod may be relieved by bromides. For their depressing power on 
centres below the cortex they are used, and with good results, in 
laryngismus stridulus, and have been given in whooping-cough, 
but the benefit is not marked. Some cases of tetanus have recov- 
ered after enormous doses of bromides. Here their value is, no 
doubt, due to their power of diminishing the reflex function of 
the spinal cord. Bromides have been given as antidotes for 



SULPHUR. 209 

strychnine poisoning. Sometimes they succeed in cases of 
hysteria and neuralgia. 

Sexual functions — Because of its depressant effect bromide 
of potassium is given for spermatorrhoea and nymphomania. 

7. ACIDUM HYDROBROMICUM D I LUTUM.- Diluted Hydro- 
bromic Acid. HBr. 

Source. — Hydrogen sulphide is passed through bromine mixed with water. 
H 2 S-|-2Br— 2HBr_|-S. The ac j^ j s distilled over and diluted with water. 

Characters. — A clear colorless acid liquid, with a strongly acid taste. 
Sp gr. 1.077. Contains 10 per cent, of absolute hydrobromic acid. 

Dose, yi to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of this acid appears to be the same as that of the 
bromides of the alkaline metals, but it is very rarely used for the 
same purposes. It has been employed with occasional success to 
relieve noises in the ears, and it is said to prevent the symptoms 
of poisoning by quinine; of this drug it is an excellent solvent. 



GROUP X. 

Containing Sulphur only. 
SULPHUR. 



Symbol, S. Combining weight, 32. 
Sulphur is officinal in three forms. 

1. SULPHUR SUB LI MATUM.— Sublimed Sulphur. Synonym.— 
Flowers of sulphur. 

Source. — From crude sulphur by sublimation. 

Characters. — A fine, citron-yellow powder of a slight characteristic taste. 
Impurities. — Sulphurous and sulphuric acids, sulphide of arsenic, earthy 
matters. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

Preparation. 

1. Unguentum Sulphuris. — Sublimed sulphur, 30 ; benzoinated 
lard, 70. 

2. SULPHUR PRJECIPITATUM.— Precipitated Sulphur. Syno- 
nym. — Milk of sulphur. 



2IO INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Source. — Boil sublimed sulphur with slaked lime in water. i2S-|-3Ca 
H 2 2 =2CaS 5 -|-CaS 2 3 - r -3H 2 0. This gives a solution containing calcium 
sulphide and calcium hyposulphite. To it hydrochloric acid is added, and 
sulphur is thrown down as a very fine precipitate. 2CaS 5 -p-CaS 2 3 -|-6HCl— 
3 CaCl 2 +6S 2 +3H 2 0. 

Characters. — A fine yellowish- white amorphous powder, almost tasteless. 

Impurity. — Sulphate of lime, which makes it gritty. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

3. SULPHUR LOTUM.- Washed Sulphur. 

Source. — Sublimed sulphur diluted with water of ammonia and the 
precipitate washed with water. 

Characters. — A fine, citron-yellow powder, odorless and almost tasteless. 
Insoluble in water. 

Impurities. — Acids, arsenious acid, and arsenious sulphide. 

Preparation. 

1. Unguentum Sulphuris Alkalinum. — Washed sulphur, 20; 
carbonate of potassium, 10 ; water, 5; benzoinated lard, 65. 

Washed sulphur is contained in Pulvis Glycyrrhizte Compositus. 

Action of Sulphur. 

External. — Sulphur itself has no action on the skin, but 
some of it is converted into sulphuretted hydrogen and that is a 
mild vascular stimulant causing slight dilatation of the vessels and 
in some persons eczema. It kills the Sarcoptes scabiei, and is 
therefore a parasiticide. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — It has no effect on the stom- 
ach, and most that is taken is passed out in the faeces unaltered. 
A certain amount is, in the intestine, converted into sulphuretted 
hydrogen and other sulphides. These cause a mild laxative 
effect, increasing the secretion of intestinal juice, and slightly 
stimulating the muscular coat, producing soft semi-liquid stools, 
sometimes accompanied by flatus of sulphuretted hydrogen, 
which, if in sufficient quantity, makes sulphur an undesirable 
laxative. 

Remote effects. — Sulphur is absorbed as sulphides and sulphur- 
etted hydrogen, which is a powerful poison, decomposing the 
blood and thus producing symptoms of asphyxia. It also para- 



SULPHUR. 211 

lyzes the whole nervous and muscular systems, but sulphur is 
never given to man in sufficient doses to produce any remote 
effects. Patients taking sulphur get rid of some minute portion 
of it as sulphuretted hydrogen through the kidneys, the milk, the 
lungs, and skin. The breath occasionally smells of it, and silver 
ornaments next to the skin may be discolored. 

Therapeutics of Sulphur. 

External. — Sulphur is commonly used to kill the Sarcoptes 
scabiei, and thus to cure scabies. The skin should be well 
scrubbed with soft soap and hot water to lay open the burrows. 
Then it is thoroughly rubbed with the ointment. The patient 
should do this before bedtime, sleep in flannel, and wash the 
ointment off the next morning. This proceeding repeated three 
or four times will generally cure the disease. Sulphur ointment 
was formerly applied as a stimulant to ulcers, and was rubbed in 
for chronic rheumatism, but these modes of treatment are now 
rarely used, and their value is doubtful. Mineral water contain- 
ing sulphur is useful for chronic rheumatism, as, for example, that 
of Richfield Springs. Mild sulphur preparations are applied for 
acne. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Sulphur is a very good laxa- 
tive, especially for children; as it produces a soft motion but no 
pain, it is useful for cases of piles or fissure of the anus. Washed 
sulphur is contained in compound liquorice powder, which is an 
excellent and popular laxative. One or two sulphur lozenges of 
the B. P., each containing five grains of precipitated sulphur and 
one grain of acid tartrate of potassium, taken at bedtime often 
secure an easy evacuation of the bowels the next morning, in per- 
sons liable to slight constipation. These lozenges have been 
recommended for constipation associated with hepatic disease. 

Remote effects.— Sulphur has been administered internally for 
all sorts of skin diseases, generally without any good result, but 
occasionally chronic eczema associated with much itching appears 
to be benefited by it, so that the sulphur lozenge is a suitable lax- 
ative for these cases. Sulphur has been also given for bronchitis, 



212 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

for chronic rheumatism, and rheumatic myalgia, but it is very- 
doubtful whether in these diseases there is much relief from this 
treatment. 

4. POTASSA SULPHURATA.- Sulphurated Potash. Synonym.— 
Liver of sulphur. A mixture consisting for the most part of hyposulphite of 
potassium (K 2 S 2 3 ) and the sulphide of potassium (K 2 S 3 ). 

Source. — Heat in a crucible a mixture of sublimed sulphur and carbonate 
of potassium. 3K 2 C0 3 +8S=K 2 S 2 3 +2K 2 S 3 +3C0 2 . 

Characters. — Dull greenish-yellow solid masses, the freshly broken 
surfaces of which are liver-colored. Solubility. — In 2 parts of water. 

5. CALX SULPHURATA. See Lime, p. 134. 

6. SULPHURIS IODIDUM.— Iodide of Sulphur. SI. 

Source. — Heating I part of washed sulphur with 4 parts of iodine to 
liquefaction, when solid, after cooling, reduce the fused mass to pieces. 

Characters. —A grayish-black solid, generally in pieces, having the 
characteristic odor of iodine, an acrid taste and faintly acid reaction. Solubility. 
— Insoluble in water. 

Dose, 1 to 4 gr. 

Action of Sulphurated Potash, Sulphurated Lime, and 

Iodide of Sulphur. 

External. — These preparations are irritant, and are power- 
ful parasiticides for the Sarcoptes scabiei. 

Internal. — Nothing is known of their internal action. 

Therapeutics of Sulphurated Potash, Sulphurated Lime, 
and Iodide of Sulphur. 

External. —Either of the ointments will cure scabies, and 
the sulphurated potash ointment (B. P. — Sulphurated potash, 5 ; 
hard paraffin, 18; soft paraffin, 55 ;) is often used for this purpose 
in the same way as sulphur ointment. Both drugs have been used 
for many chronic skin diseases, but now they are not often em- 
ployed. They appear, however, occasionally to do good in cases 
of acne indurata. Baths containing sulphides in solution are 
considered by many to be very useful for chronic rheumatic 
arthritis and rheumatic myalgia. The famous natural sulphide 
baths are those of Aix-la-Chapelle. Aix-les-Bains, and there are 



ACIDS. 213 

many others, which will be found described in works on general 
therapeutics; but as in all of them the water is warm, and warm 
water is beneficial for chronic rheumatism, and the sulphides 
exist in infinitesimally small quantities, it is very probable that 
the benefit is due more to the heat of the water than to its con- 
stituents. 

Internal. — Sulphides have been given for chronic rheu- 
matism, various skin diseases, and phthisis, but the evidence of 
good done is scanty. 



GROUP XI. 

Acids. 



Those acids which will be considered here may be divided into two classes. 

First, those which are strongly acid, the more powerfully acid being active 
caustics. They are Sulphuric, Nitric, Hydrochloric, Nitro -hydrochloric, 
Phosphoric, Acetic, Tartaric, Citric, and Lactic acids. Hydrobromic 
and hydriodic acids might be placed here, but they have already been c >n- 
sidered (see pp. 202 and 209). 

Second, those which, although feebly acid, are powerfully antiseptic. 
They are Boric and Sulphurous acids. 

Dilute hydrocyanic, carbolic, benzoic, gallic, tannic, oleic, and salicylic 
acids are not used as acids, and will be considered under other headings. 

Arsenious acid and chromic acid are not true acids ; they are anhydrides, 
and have already been considered [see pp. 184 and 193). 

Class I. 

1. ACIDUM SULPHURICUM.— Sulphuric Acid. H 2 S0 4 . 

Source. — Produced by the combustion of sulphur, and the oxidization and 
hydration of the resulting sulphurous acid gas by means of nitrous and aqueous 
vapors. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid of an oily appearance, intensely acid and 
caustic. Sp. gr. I '840. Contains not less than 96 per cent, absolute sulphuric 
acid. 

Impurities. — Nitric acid, lead, arsenic. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies, their carbonates, lead, and calcium salts. 

Preparations. 
1. Acidum Sulphuricum Dilutum. — Sulphuric acid, 1 ; dis- 
tilled water, 9. Sp. gr. 1.067. 
Dose, 10 to 30 m. 



214 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Acidum Sulphuricum Aromaticum. — Sulphuric acid, 200; 
oil of cinnamon, 1 ; tincture of ginger, 45 ; alcohol, a sufficient quantity 
to make 1000; Sp. gr. 0.95. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

It is contained in Infusum Cinchonse. 

2. ACIDUM NITRICUM.— Nitric Acid. HN0 3 . 

Source. — Made from nitrate of potassium or nitrate of sodium by distill- 
ing with sulphuric acid. KN0 3 +H 2 S0 4 =rKHS0 4 -j-HN0 3 . 

Characters. — A colorless, fuming, very caustic and corrosive liquid. 
Sp. gr. 1.420. Contains 69.4 per cent, absolute nitric acid. 

Impurities. — Sulphuric acid, nitre, and lower oxides of nitrogen, giving 
ruddy fumes. 

Incompatibles. — Alcohol, alkalies, carbonates, oxides, sulphate of iron, 
acetate of lead. 

Preparations. 

1. Acidum Nitricum Dilutum. — Nitric acid, 1; distilled water, 
6. Sp. gr. 1.059. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

2. Acidum Nitro-hydrochloricum. — Nitric acid, 4; hydro- 
chloric acid, 15. 

3. Acidum Nitro-hydrochloricum Dilutum. — Nitric acid, 4; 
hydrochloric acid, 15; distilled water, 76. Contains free chlorine, 
hydrochloric, nitric and nitrous acids, and other compounds dissolved 
in water. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. ACIDUM HYDROCHLORICUM.— Hydrochloric Acid. HC1. 
Source. — The fumes produced by the action of sulphuric acid on chlo- 
ride of sodium are dissolved in water. 

Characters. — A colorless, very acid, fuming liquid. Sp. gr. 1.160. 
Contains 31.9 per cent, absolute hydrochloric acid. 

Incompatibles. — Lead and silver salts, alkalies and their carbonates. 

Preparations, 

1. Acidum Hydrochloricum Dilutum. Hydrochloric acid, 6; 
distilled water, 13. Sp. gr. T.049. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

2. Acidum Nitro-hydrochloricum Dilutum. See Nitric Acid. 

4. ACIDUM PHOSPHORICUM. See Phosphorus. 

5. ACIDUM ACETICUM. Acetic Acid. HC 2 H 3 2 . 

Source. — Obtained from wood by destructive distillation and purification. 



ACIDS. 215 

Characters. — A clear, colorless liquid. Sp. gr. 1.048. Contains 36 
per cent, of absolute acetic acid. 

Impurities.— Lead and copper, sulphuric, hydrochloric and sulphurous 

acids. 

Preparation. 

Acidum Aceticum Dilutum. — Acetic acid, 17; distilled water, 83. 
Dose, 1 to 8 fl. dr. 

6. ACIDUM ACETICUM GLACIALE. — Glacial Acetic Acid. 
HCgHgOg. 

Source. — Distil dry acetate of sodium with strong sulphuric acid. NaC 2 
H 3 2 +H 2 S0 4 ==:HC 2 H 3 2 +NaHS0 4 . 

Characters. — A colorless, very acid liquid, crystallizing below 6o° F. 
Sp gr. 1.056 to 1.058. Contains at least 99 per cent, absolute acetic acid. 

7. ACIDUM CITRICUM.— Citric Acid. H 3 C 6 H 5 7 ,H 2 0. 
Source. — Found in the fruits of the lime {Citrus bergamia) and lemon 

[Citrus limonum). Chalk is added to the boiling juice, usually lemon juice. 
2H 3 C 6 H 5 7 +3CaC0 3 =Ca 3 (C 6 H 5 7 ) 2 4-3C0 2 + 3H 2 0. The precipitated citrate 
of calcium is boiled with sulphuric acid. After filtration and evaporation, citric 
acid crystallizes out. Ca 3 (C 6 H 5 7 ) 2 -f3H 2 S0 4 =2H 3 C 6 H 5 7 +3CaS0 4 . 

Characters. — Colorless right-rhombic prisms, very soluble in water. 
Citric acid, like tartaric acid is often used to produce an effervescing mixture 
with the carbonates of ammonium, sodium or potassium, the two solutions 
being mixed immediately before taking. The carbonic acid gas which causes 
the effervescence is formed thus: — 3KHC0 3 +H 3 C 6 H 5 7 =K 3 C 6 H 5 7 +3C0 2 
+ 3 H 2 0. 

Incompatibles. — Tartrate of potassium, alkaline carbonates, acetates. 

Impurities. — Copper, lead, sulphuric and tartaric acids, mineral matters. 

Free citric acid is contained in Limonis Succus, Syrupus Limonis, Mistura 
Potassii Citratis. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

8. SYRUPUS ACIDI CITRICI.— Citric Acid, 8 parts; water, 8 parts ; 
spirit of Lemon, 4 parts ; syrup, 980 parts. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

9. ACIDUM TARTARICUM.— Tartaric acid. H 2 C 4 H 4 6 . 
Source. — Boil acid tartrate of potassium with carbonate of calcium. 2K 

H,C 4 H 4 6 +CaC0 3 =CaC 4 H 4 6 -(-K 2 C 4 H 4 6 -hH 2 04-C0 2 . Chloride of cal- 
cium is now added. This precipitates more tartrate of calcium. K 2 C 4 H 4 6 -|- 
Ca0 2 =CaC 4 H 4 6 -|-2KCl. The tartrate of calcium is finally decomposed with 
sulphuric acid. CaC 4 H 4 6 -f-H 2 S0 4 =H 2 C 4 H 4 6 -j-CaS0 4 . Then evaporate the 
fluid to sp. gr. 1.25. Separate the sulphate of calcium crystals that form. 
Again evaporate, tartaric acid crystallizes out. 



2l6 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent monoclinic prisms, longer than those of 
citric acid. Very soluble in water. 

Incompatibles. — Salts of potassium, calcium, mercury, lead, vegetable 
astringents. 

Impurities. — Lead, oxalic acid, lime, and tartrate of potassium. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. 

10. ACIDUM LACTICUM. -Lactic acid. HC 3 H 5 3 . 

Source. — Ferment a mixture of sugar, sour milk, old cheese, chalk, and 
water. At the end of a week lactate of calcium is formed. It is separated and 
decomposed with dilute sulphuric acid. 

Characters. — A colorless syrupy liquid. Sp. gr. 1.212. Contains 75 
per cent, of absolute lactic acid. Mixes well with water, alcohol, and ether. 

Impurities. — Mineral acids, sugar, lead, and iron. 

Preparation. 
1. Syrupus Calcii Lactophosphatis. — (See Lime, p. 134). 

Action of Sulphuric, Nitric, Hydrochloric, Phosphoric, 
Acetic, Citric, Tartaric and Lactic Acids. 

External. — All these acids are powerful irritants when 
applied externally. The feeblest is citric. Its concentrated so- 
lution has no action on the sound skin, but is irritant to mucous 
membranes and abraded surfaces. Tartaric is stronger than 
citric acid ; it will act upon the unabraded skin, and applied to a 
sore it produces pain, a sensation of burning, and considerable 
vascular dilatation. The remaining acids are very powerful irri- 
tants, therefore even weak dilute solutions of them may produce 
considerable redness and perhaps vesication, and when the solu- 
tion is strong they are very energetic caustics ; sulphuric and 
phosphoric acids, having a powerful affinity for water, are espe- 
cially active. Sulphuric acid leaves the carbon untouched, there- 
fore it blackens ; nitric stains the skin a deep yellow, it does not 
redissolve the albumen it precipitates, and it is consequently lim- 
ited in its area of action ; nitro-hydrochloric is very powerful ; 
hydrochloric is the least active of the mineral acids ; glacial acetic 
acid is useful when a limited action is required. All the stronger 
acids unite with and coagulate albumen ; hence weak solu- 
tions, not strong enough to form a slough, which by its separa- 



ACIDS. 217 

tion may cause bleeding, will, by coagulating the blood and so 
plugging the vessels, and by coagulating the albumen in the tis- 
sues and so constricting the vessels, act as astringents and 
haemostatics. Dilute solutions of acids are cooling to the 
flushed skin of fever, therefore they are called refrigerants. 

Internal. — Mouth. — All acids have a peculiar taste, and 
give rise to a feeling of roughness about the teeth. As the saliva 
is alkaline they increase the amount secreted, consequently 
by keeping the mouth moist they allay thirst. 

Stomach. — It is believed that, if given during a meal, acids will 
check the flow of gastric juice, as that is an acid secretion. 
When the amount of acid secreted by the gastric mucous mem- 
brane is deficient, acids taken after a meal, when all that the 
stomach can secrete has been secreted, aid digestion. 

Intestine. — Acids quickly become converted into neutral salts, 
and are probably absorbed as such. Some, especially sulphuric 
(diluted), preserve in the intestine their astringent action. 
They increase the amount of bile poured into the intestine, and 
are hence cholagogues ; this is especially the case with nitric 
acid. Nitro-hydrochloric acid is a very complex compound ; as 
far as is known it possesses the action of mineral acids generally. 

Remote effects. — Acids may render the blood less alkaline, but 
never acid. They do this by combining with some of the alkali 
of the plasma. Phosphoric acid is believed to increase the 
amount of phosphates in the red blood-corpuscles. It is probable 
that in their passage through the liver they check the formation 
of urea. The reason for this belief is that all these acids, except 
citric, acetic, tartaric and lactic, are excreted in the urine chiefly 
as ammoniacal salts. Nitric acid is stated to be excreted to a 
small extent as ammonia, and hence slightly to increase the alka- 
linity of the urine. Acetic, citric and tartaric acids are decom- 
posed in the blood, alkaline carbonates being formed, and the 
alkalinity of the urine is increased. This has already been dis- 
cussed {see p. 58). Lactic acid is either converted into a car- 
bonate of an alkali, or passed out as carbonic acid gas in solution 
in the urine. 

19 



2l8 inorganic materia medica. 

Therapeutics of Sulphuric, Nitric, Hydrochloric, Phos- 
phoric, Acetic, Citric, Tartaric and Lactic Acids. 

External. — Nitric acid is more often used as a caustic than 
the others, for, owing to their great affinity for water, it is diffi- 
cult to limit the action of sulphuric and phosphoric acids : and 
the remaining acids are not so powerful as nitric acid. It is em- 
ployed to destroy warts, condylomata, unhealthy phagedaenic 
sores, cancrum oris, etc., etc. Glacial acetic acid is used for 
small warts and corns. If this causes pain it may be diluted. 
Very diluted solutions are rarely employed for their irritant 
effects, but at some bathing establishments acid baths are used, 
but it is not proved that they do any good. Any well-diluted 
acid, especially sulphuric, may be applied to check slight bleed- 
ing, as that of leech -bites, piles, etc. Vinegar can always be ob- 
tained ; even this should be diluted. In fever the skin is often 
bathed with vinegar as a refrigerant, and very dilute sulphuric 
acid is used as a local astringent in the sweating of phthisis. 

Internal. — Mouth. — As acids damage the teeth they should 
be taken through a glass tube. Lemon juice or citric acid itself 
is often used to stimulate the secretion of saliva, and hence allay 
the thirst of fever patients. Lemonade is a favorite drink for 
this purpose. Lactic acid has been strongly recommended to 
dissolve off the membrane in diphtheria, but there is no evidence 
that this treatment benefits the patient. Equal parts of lactic 
acid and water may be applied with a mop, or a spray of a 
strength of 5J to 5j of water may be employed. Very dilute 
nitric acid has been used for the same purpose. 

Stomach and intestines. — Hydrochloric, and to a less extent 
nitro-hydrochloric acids are of the greatest value to that variety 
of dyspepsia in which the acidity of the gastric juice is deficient. 
They -should, as already explained, be given some little while 
after a meal. A very usual stomachic mixture consists of dilute 
nitro-hydrochloric acid combined with tincture of nux vomica, 
and some other stomachic, as compound tincture of gentian. 
Lactic acid has been used for the same purpose. Acids will 
often alleviate that form of indigestion in which the patient com- 



ACIDS. 219 

plains of acid eructations and heartburn. For this purpose they 
should be given during a meal or before it. They then check 
the excessive secretion of acid and restrain fermentation. An 
acid mixture sometimes benefits the indigestion of pregnancy. 
Vinegar is often drunk to reduce obesity, but it only does so be- 
cause a long course of any acid will set up a mild gastritis, and 
thus hinder the digestion and absorption of food. Carbonic acid, 
taken in an effervescing mixture, is a common and very effica- 
cious gastric sedative, beneficial, therefore, in painful dyspepsia 
and in vomiting. Dilute sulphuric acid may be used as a haemo- 
static in bleeding from the stomach or intestines, but its action 
is feeble. It is, however, successful as an astringent in many 
cases of summer diarhoea. Nitric and nitro-hydrochloric acids, 
increasing the amount of bile poured into the intestine, are given, 
and sometimes with much benefit, when it is considered that 
dyspepsia is due to disordered function of the liver. 

Remote effects. — The remote effects of citric, tartaric, and 
acetic acids have already been described (p. 58). They are due 
to the increase in the alkalinity of the blood and the urine. 
Phosphoric acid is often given to weak, sickly, anaemic children 
with the view of improving the quality of the red blood-corpus- 
cles, and possibly aiding the growth of bones, but it has not been 
proved to have any great value. The same may be said of the 
vegetable acids when employed for scurvy, and of lactic and 
phosphoric acids when given for diabetes ; indeed, the latter is 
said to do harm. Lime juice was formerly a popular remedy for 
acute rheumatism, but it did little if any good. Sulphuric acid 
is by some said to be anhidrotic in the night sweating of phthisis, 
and had some reputation as a remote haemostatic, but it is rarely 
given now for these purposes. Rohrig found that acids diminished 
the tracheal secretion, and some physicians find that they diminish 
the secretions in bronchitis. We thus see that the remote effects 
of all acids, except citric, tartaric and acetic, are unimportant. 

Toxicology. 
All these acids are severe gastro-intestinal irritants when given in toxic 
doses. Tartaric, citric, and lactic are very rarely taken as poisons. The symp- 



220 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

toms produced by the whole class are severe burning pain extending from the 
mouth to the stomach, excoriation of the mouth with the formation of sloughs, 
great difficulty in swallowing, vomiting of dark-brown coffee -colored material 
and shreds of mucus, intense abdominal pain aggravated by the slightest move- 
ment, generally obstinate constipation, but if the bowels are open the motions 
are dark, from the blood contained in them. Some of the acid generally passes 
down to the larynx and causes swelling of that organ, and consequently dys- 
pnoea from obstruction to respiration. The patient becomes cold, collapsed, and 
covered with a cold sweat; his pulse is very feeble, and he suffers from great 
thirst. Post mortem. — The mucous membrane of the mouth and oesophagus is 
softened and corroded, and whitish-gray sloughs and haemorrhages may be seen 
here and there. The coats of the stomach are softened. It is often contracted, 
and it may be perforated, the aperture being irregular. If the acid escapes into 
the peritoneal cavity, it may act on almost any of the abdominal organs. Should 
the patient have lived long enough, there may be corrosion and inflammation of 
parts of the small intestine. The mucous membrane of the throat and larynx 
is inflamed and swollen. 

Treatment. — Alkalies should be given at once, e. g. soap and water, lime 
water, magnesia, washing soda ; and then demulcents, as milk, white of egg y 
oil, linseed tea. Do not use the stomach tube if sulphuric acid has been taken, 
otherwise wash out the stomach. Morphine may be injected subcutaneously 
for the pain, and brandy subcutaneously for the collapse. 

Class II. 

i. ACIDUM SULPHUROSUM.— Sulphurous Acid. H 2 S0 3 . 

Source. — Sulphuric acid is heated with charcoal, and the resulting sul- 
phurous anhydride is dissolved in water. 4.H 2 S0 4 -[-C 2 =4S0 2 -J-2C0 2 -f-4H 2 0. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid with a sulphurous odor. Sp. gr. 1.023. 
Contains about 3.5 per cent, of sulphurous acid gas. 

Impurities. — Sulphuric acid, mineral matters. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. Best given in Mistura Amygdalae. 

Action. 

External. — Sulphurous acid is strongly deoxidizing, and as 
it takes up oxygen so easily from organic bodies, it readily de- 
composes them, becoming itself converted into sulphuric acid, 
and hence is irritant, but not violently so, for the amount of sul- 
phuric acid in proportion to the water is slight. It is a disin- 
fectant and deodorant; for, in virtue of its property of 
absorbing oxygen, it destroys micro-organisms and arrests fer- 
mentation. When applied to the skin it is a parasiticide. 



ACIDS. 221 

Internal. — It is believed to act as a disinfectant in the 
stomach and intestines, but it is very doubtful whether enough 
of it to have any appreciable action in this direction can be safely 
taken. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Sulphurous acid is chiefly used as an antiseptic, 
disinfectant, and deodorant. Sulphurous anhydride is employed 
as a disinfectant for a sick room after a patient with an infectious 
disease has been in it. The chimneys and windows should be 
stopped up. A quarter- to half a pound or more of flowers of 
sulphur or, better, one or two sulphur candles, now to be found in 
pharmacies, are placed in an earthenware vessel and lighted. The 
door is shut, and the cracks around it pasted over. The room 
should be left untouched for six hours. Generally not enough 
sulphur is burned for this method to be efficacious. Sulphurous 
acid (3ij to 5j of water) is locally applied to cure ringworm. 
Foul sores may be washed with it. 

Internal. — Sulphurous acid is sometimes given internally 
with the object of preventing abnormal fermentation in the 
stomach and intestines in certain varieties of dyspepsia, but there 
is no clinical proof that it can do this, and it should be remem- 
bered that it is possible it may do harm by impeding the action 
of the normal ferments. 

2. POTASSII SULPHIS.— Sulphite of Potassium. K 2 S0 3 ,2H 2 0. 
Source. — By passing sulphurous acid gas through a solution of carbonate 

of potassium. 

Characters. — White, opaque, obliquely rhombic, octahedral crystals, or 
a crystalline powder, somewhat deliquescent, odorless, having a bitter, saline 
and sulphurous taste, and a neutral or feebly alkaline reaction. Soluble in 4 
parts of water, only sparingly soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

3. MAGNESII SULPHIS. Sulphite of Magnesium. MgS0 3 ,6H 2 0. 
Source. — By double decomposition between magnesium sulphate and 

neutral sodium sulphite. 

Characters. — A white, crystalline powder, odorless, having a slightly 
bitter and somewhat sulphurous taste, and a neutral or slightly alkaline reac- 
tion. Soluble in 20 parts of water ; insoluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. 



22 2 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

4. SODII BISULPHIS, 5. SODII SULPHIS, and 6. SODII 
HYPOSULPHIS, See Sodium, p. 123. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The sulphites have the same action as sulphurous acid, but are 
better for internal administration. 

5. ACIDUM BORICUM.— Boric Acid, H 3 B0 3 . Synonym.— Bora- 
cic acid. 

Source. — Native, or made by the action of sulphuric acid on borax. 

Characters. — Transparent, colorless, six-sided plates, feebly acid. Solu- 
bility. — 1 in 25 of cold water, I in 3 of boiling water, I in 5 of glycerine, I in 
5 of boiling alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

6. SODII BORAS.— Borate of Sodium. Na 2 B 4 7 , ioH 2 0. Synonym.— 
Borax. 

Source. — Boil together boric acid and carbonate of sodium. Also found 
native. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, shining, monoclinic prisms of alka- 
line taste and reaction. Solubility.—! in 16 of cold water, I in I of glycerine. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Action of Boric Acid and Borax. 
Both boric acid and borax have the power of destroying micro- 
organisms, and are thus disinfectant and antiseptic, but their 
exact value has not been satisfactorily determined. The action 
is extremely local. Solutions of boric acid will relieve itching. 
Neither substance produces any irritation. We know nothing of 
their internal action except that large doses are gastro-intestinal 
irritants. 

Therapeutics of Boric Acid and Borax. 

As they do not irritate, both these substances are largely used 
to keep wounds, ulcers, and sores sweet. The action is so local 
that they cannot be used to dress cavities. Boracic lint is em- 
ployed to dress wounds. It is made by passing lint through a hot 
saturated solution of boric acid. A saturated solution of boric 
acid (4 per cent.), or a watery solution of 1 in 40 of the prepara- 
tion known as boroglyceride — consisting of 92 parts of glycerine 
heated with '62 of boric acid, a tough, deliquescent mass, which 



CHARCOAL. 223 

is readily soluble in alcohol and water — may be used as an anti- 
septic wash. Such solutions are used for ozaena, vaginitis, 
urethritis, and ophthalmia. Thompson's fluid (borax, 1 oz. ; 
glycerine, 2 fl. oz. ; water, 2 fl. oz.), in the proportion of J^ fl. 
oz. to 4 fl. oz. of warm water, is commonly employed to wash out 
the bladder in cystitis. The glycerine of the B. P., which is, 
borax, 1, water, 2, glycerine, 4, and the honey of borax, of 
the B. P., which is, borax, 2, glycerine, 1, clarified honey, 16, 
are excellent applications for aphthous states of the mouth, espe- 
cially in children. The following is a good wash for the mouth : 
Glycerine of borax, B. P., 3jj tincture of myrrh, 10 tt[ ; water 
to 5j. Borax has been given, occasionally with benefit, in epi- 
lepsy. In rare cases its use has caused psoriasis. Boric acid is 
not employed internally in medicine. 



GROUP XII. 

CARBON AND ITS COMPOUNDS. 
Class I. — Carbon. 

CARBO. 

Carbon. Symbol, C. Combining weight, 12. 
Carbon is officinal in three forms : 

1. CARBO AN I MALI S. Synonyms. — Animal charcoal. Bone-black. 
Source. — Expose bones to red heat without access of air, and then pow- 
der them. 

Characters. — Dull, black-granularfragments in powder. Insoluble in 
water. Contains pure carbon 14 percent.; the residue consists chiefly of 
phosphate and carbonate of calcium. 

2. CARBO ANIMALIS PURIFICATUS.— Purified Animal Char- 
coal. 

Source. — Digest animal charcoal with dilute hydrochloric acid. Filter, 
wash and heat the residue to redness in a closed crucible. 

Characters. — A dull black, odorless, tasteless powder. Should contain 
no salts. 

Dose, 20 to 60 gr. ; ]/ 2 oz. or more as an antidote. 



224 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

3. CARBO LIGNI.— Wood Charcoal. 

Source. — Wood charred without access of air. 

Characters. — Black, brittle, porous masses, the shape of the wood. 

Dose, 20 to 60 gr. 

Action. 

External. — Dry charcoal absorbs gases and condenses them 
within its pores. It thus absorbs oxygen, and hence has an 
oxidizing power, parting with the absorbed oxygen to oxidize 
organic and other substances. Therefore it is disinfectant and 
deodorant. It attracts and oxidizes coloring matters, and 
consequently decolorizes them. 

Internal. — It has no known internal action, for it can only 
absorb gases when dry, and it is quickly wetted when taken in- 
ternally. It is passed in the faeces unchanged. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Charcoal has been recommended as an antiseptic 
and deodorant for foul ulcers, etc., but it is of very little use, for 
the discharges soon moisten it. For the same reason the poul- 
tice of the B. P. (wood charcoal, 1 ; flaxseed meal, 3 \ bread 
crumb, 4; boiling water, 20), although some of the charcoal is 
put on dry, is a bad preparation. Charcoal is used in pharmacy 
as a decolorizing agent. 

Internal. — It has been given as a powder, as lozenges, and 
as biscuits, with the object of preventing fermentation in the 
stomach, but it cannot be any use after it is wetted. Garrod has 
shown that a table-spoonful or larger doses of charcoal frequently 
repeated, are antidotes against most active vegetable poisons, as 
opium, nux vomica, and aconite, for charcoal seems to have a 
special attraction for alkaloids. Animal charcoal is the best form 
to give as an antidote. Charcoal is used as a tooth powder. 

Class II. — Alcohol, Ether, and Chloroform. 

These substances produce local anaesthesia by evaporation. They are 
rubefacient if their vapor is confined. The stomach, heart, and central nervous 
system are first stimulated and then depressed by them. 



ALCOHOL. 225 

ALCOHOL. 

Ethylic Alcohol. C 2 H 5 , OH. 

Alcohol is officinal in the seven following forms : 

1. ALCOHOL. 

Source. — Macerate rectified spirit with carbonate of potassium to remove 
the water, then again with freshly fused chloride of calcium, and distil. 

Characters. — A colorless fluid, free from odor. Sp.gr, 0.820. Contains 
91 per cent, by weight of alcohol. Boils at 172.4 F. Entirely volatilized. 

Impurities. — Resins or oils, detected by turbidity on dilution. 

Preparation. — Used to make chloroform. 

2. ALCOHOL DILUTUM.— Diluted alcohol. Alcohol, 50; Dis- 
tilled Water, 50. 

Characters. — Contains 45.5 per cent, by weight of alcohol. Sp. gr. 
0.928. 

3. SPIRITUS VINI GALLICI. Synonym.— Brandy. 
Source. — Spirits distilled from French wine. 

Characters. — Pale amber color, peculiar flavor. Contains 39 to 47 
per cent, by weight of alcohol, with a volatile oil and several ethers. Sp. gr, 
0.925 to 0.941. 

4. SPIRITUS FRUMENTI.— Whisky. 
Source. — Spirits distilled from fermented grain. 

Characters. — An amber-colored liquid of distinctive taste and odor. 
Sp. gr. 0.917 to 0.930. Contains 44 to 50 per cent, by weight of alcohol. 

5. VINUM ALBUM.— White Wine. 

Source. — By fermentation from the unmodified juice of the grape, freed 
from seeds, stems and skins. 

Characters. — Pale color, with fruity, agreeable taste. Contains between 
10 and 12 per cent, by weight of alcohol. Sp. gr. 0.990 to 1.010. 

6. VINUM ALBUM FORTIUS.— Stronger White Wine. White 
wine, 7 ; alcohol, I . 

Contains 20 to 25 per cent, by weight of alcohol. 

7. VINUM RUBRUM. 

Source. — By fermenting the juice of colored grapes in the presence of 
their skins. ■ 

Characters. — A deep-red alcoholic liquid, of fruity, moderately astrin- 
gent, pleasant taste. Sp. gr., 0.989 to 1. 010. 
20 



226 



INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 



Amount of Absolute Alcohol by Weight in various Important Substances. 

Alcohol Ethylicum (B. P.) . . . contains 98 to 99 per cent. 

Alcohol. .......... " 91 u 

Spiritus Rectificatus (B. P.) . . " 84 " 

Spiritus .Vini Gallici ...-■". 39 to 47 '« 

Whisky ........... " 44 to 50 " 

Rum, Gin, Strong Liqueurs . . " .40 to 50 " 

Alcohol Dilutum . ...... " 54.5 * 

Spiritus Tenuior (B. P.) .... " 49 " 

Vinum Album Fortius " 20 to 25 " 

Port " 15 to 25 " 

Sherry and Madeira. ...... 1. . . ". 15 to. 20 " 

Champagne " 10 to 13 " 

Burgundy .......... " 10 to 13 " 

Hock " 10 to 12 " 

Claret " 8 to 12 " 

Vinum Album . . . ..... " 10 to 12 " 

Vinum Rubrum ....... " 10 to 12 ~*' 

Vinum Aurantii (B. P.) . . . . " 10 to~i2 u 

Cider. ..... ..... " 5 to 9 "\ 

Strong Ale or Stout " 5 to 9 " 

Beer and Porter .......... " 2 to 5 . . " 

Kumyss ........... " I to 3 " 

Action of Alcohol. 

External. — It is a powerful disinfectant. If applied to the 
skin, alcohol quickly evaporates. It therefore cools the skin, 
which consequently becomes pale from the contraction of the 
small vessels ; owing to this less sweat is secreted. Alcohol is thus 
refrigerant, astringent and anhidrotic. But if evaporation is pre- 
vented in any way, such as by a watch-glass or a piece of gutta- 
percha, or the alcohol is rubbed in, it quickly absorbs water 
from the skin, and thus hardens it. Having thus passed through 
the epidermis it dilates the vessels, causes a feeling of warmth, 
and produces a rubefacient effect. It has the power of coagulat- 
ing albumen, but the coagulum quickly re-dissolves. 

Internal. — Mouth. — When concentrated, alcohol produces 
a feeling of warmth, or often even a burning sensation, in 
the mouth. If held there for some time the albumen of the su- 



ALCOHOL. 25 2 7 

perficial tissues is coagulated, and the mucous membrane becomes 
whitish, congested, and opaque, but this appearance soon disap- 
pears, as the coagulum is re-dissolved by the fluids of the tissues. 
Directly the alcohol is put in the mouth there is an increased 
flow of saliva, and the pulse may be quickened ; these results are 
reflex, for they occur before there is time for the alcohol to be 
absorbed. Alcohol has a slight local anaesthetic effect. 

Stomach. — Here, also, if the alcohol is sufficiently concen- 
trated, there is a sensation of warmth or even of burning. If 
only small quantities are given, the gastric vessels dilate, the mu- 
cous membrane becomes red, and there is an increased secretion 
of gastric juice. All this can be seen to happen in cases of gastric 
fistula. The result of these effects is that the appetite is sharp- 
ened, and this explains the custom, common among many people, 
of taking a little alcohol immediately before meals, and also the 
common experience that alcohol taken during meals aids digestion. 
It also increases the activity of the gastric movements. Thus there 
are several ways in which moderate doses of alcohol may 
help the digestive process. In some cases it produces a 
local anaesthesia in the stomach, and so it may relieve gastric 
pain. It is to a slight extent decomposed into aldehyde and 
acetic acid, and consequently some of the pepsin, peptones, and 
proteids are precipitated. This hinders digestion, but usually 
not sufficiently to outdo the aid due to the vascular dilatation, 
the increased secretion, and the greater movement. The 
effect of large doses is very harmful. The activity of the 
gastric juice is destroyed, the gastric walls are inflamed, large 
quantities of mucus are poured out, and if the over-indulgence is 
continued chronic gastritis ensues, the gastric glands atrophy, 
and consequently we get the permanent dyspepsia of drunkards. 

A single dose of alcohol introduced into the stomach in a 
concentrated form, e. g. clear brandy, immediately produces im- 
portant reflex effects. The heart beats more rapidly and 
more forcibly, the vessels of the whole body dilate, especially 
those of the skin ; hence there is a feeling of warmth. The 
blood-pressure rises. These reflex effects are well seen in the im- 



2 28 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

mediate restoration of a fainting person by the ingestion of a 
single dose of brandy. Dilate alcohol, e. g. beer does not pro- 
duce them. They are quickly followed by the effects of alcohol 
upon the circulation due to the presence in the blood after ab- 
sorption. 

Intestines. — Here alcohol has a slight astringent effect, and 
consequently it may check diarrhoea. 

Blood. — Alcohol is absorbed more largely by the blood-vessels 
than the lacteals. It first increases and then diminishes the 
amoeboid movements of the white blood-corpuscles. It so acts 
on the red corpuscles as to prevent oxyhaemoglobin from readily 
yielding up its oxygen, consequently it diminishes the oxida- 
tion of the tissues. This, in habitual, drinkers of large quan- 
tities of alcohol, may lead to an imperfect combustion of fat, con- 
sequently it accumulates in the tissues, and obesity, which is often 
increased by the amount of saccharine matters alcoholic liquids 
contain, results. The skin acquires a velvety feeling. 

Alcohol is slightly antipyretic, lowering the temperature in 
fever. This is possibly due, in part, to general diminished oxi- 
dation. 

There has been much difference of opinion whether alcohol, 
while circulating through the body, is oxidized. It has now been 
shown that, to a considerable extent, it is, therefore it is a food. 
That alcohol is a food is also proved by the fact that the weight 
of the body will be maintained if a large amount of alcohol is 
taken, even if the rest of the food is very small in amount. 

If only moderate doses are drunk, very little alcohol leaves 
the body in the urine; with large doses the case is different. 

Circulation. — The effects upon the circulation refiexly pro- 
duced by stimulation of the mouth and stomach have already 
been mentioned. After alcohol is absorbed it influences the 
heart markedly. It beats more powerfully and more 
rapidly, the pulse becomes fuller; these results are due to a 
stimulating effect on the accelerator nerves. The vaso-motor 
system is acted upon, all the vessels of the body dilate, es- 
pecially those of the skin ; therefore, if he previously felt 



ALCOHOL. 229 

cold, the person who has taken the alcohol feels warm. The 
blood-pressure rises, the increased action of the heart more 
than compensating for the vascular dilatation. The direct effects 
of alcohol on the circulation after absorption appear more slowly 
and last longer, but they are clearly similar to those due to the 
reflex stimulus from the stomach, and therefore they continue 
them. The result of the increased circulation through the vari- 
ous organs is that they work to greater advantage, hence the men- 
tal faculties are brightened for a time, the muscular strength 
seems increased, more urine is passed, and the skin perspires. 
The person who has taken the alcohol, in fact, usually feels gen- 
erally better for it. This is by no means always so; some per- 
sons have a headache or feel very sleepy immediately after alco- 
hol. This is probably because the vessels of the abdomen or 
skin have dilated so excessively that almost all the blood in the 
body is in them, and consequently there is very little in the 
brain. There are many individual peculiarities in the effects of 
alcohol. 

It has been repeatedly proved that these good results are but 
transitory. The heart, although at first stimulated, is more 
exhausted after the stimulation has passed off than it was 
before. This is true also of all the organs of the body stimulated 
by the increased circulation induced by alcohol. In many cam- 
paigns and arctic expeditions it has been found that although at 
first the men, after taking alcohol, could do more work, yet soon 
they felt so tired and exhausted, that on the whole they could do 
much more without than with the alcohol. Large doses of 
alcohol do not stimulate the heart at all ; they paralyze it, both 
reflexly from the stomach and after absorption. Enormous 
doses poured into the stomach kill almost immediately by reflex 
action. A drunkard who is "dead drunk" is, accurately speak- 
ing, one who is killed by the paralyzing effect of alcohol on the 
heart, but the phrase is often applied to any one who is very 
drunk. 

Skin. — Alcohol is a mild diaphoretic, partly because of its 
vaso dilator action, and perhaps also because of some direct in- 



230 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

flueiice on the sweat-glands. As just mentioned, the cutaneous 
vascular dilatation leads to a feeling of warmth if the patient's 
cutaneous vessels were previously contracted from cold. It may 
be that part of the antipyretic power of alcohol is due to in- 
creased radiation from the dilated vessels, and also to evaporation 
of the increased amount of sweat. If a person is in a cold atmos- 
phere, alcohol, by increasing the radiation from the skin, leads to 
the loss of so much heat that he may die from cold, although at 
first the increased cutaneous circulation, making him feel warmer, 
gives him a delusive feeling of warmth. 

Kidneys. — But little alcohol is passed in the urine, much of it 
being oxidized in the body, some eliminated by the lungs, and 
traces by the skin. It acts as a diuretic; probably this is a 
secondary result of its vascular effects. 

Nervous system. — Unless the dose be very large the whole 
nervous system is stimulated, perhaps to a slight extent directly, 
but chiefly as a secondary result of the vascular dilatation and 
cardiac stimulation. The highest functions are most affected. 
The person who has taken the alcohol talks more fluently and 
brilliantly, his wits are sharpened, he has a feeling of strength. 
If the dose has been large, the stage of exaltation of these or any 
other functions quickly passes into one of depression, the highest 
functions being affected first, and the stimulation and depression 
of function proceed regularly from the highest to the lowest. The 
action of alcohol thus illustrates both the fact that stimulation is 
usually succeeded by depression, and also the'" law of dissolution,' ' 
which (p. 92) states that functions which have appeared latest in 
the animal series or the individual are the most easy to influence, 
those which have appeared earlier are less easy to influence ; and 
so by regular sequence till we arrive at those functions which are 
first developed, which are the last to be influenced. The stimu- 
lation and subsequent depression of function, therefore, proceeds 
in a descending scale from the highest or least firmly fixed func- 
tion to the lowest or most firmly fixed. Thus the power of judg- 
ment is abolished very early by alcohol 5 this is so while the 
imagination, the emotions, and the power of speech, still remain 



ALCOHOL. 23I 

Stimulated ; but soon the power of imagination goes, the patient 
loses all command over his emotions, he cries and laughs irregu- 
larly, but this soon stops. Re next begins to lose control over 
his speech, talking incoherently and thickly; shortly afterwards 
he cannot talk at all, but can only make a noise. Muscular 
movements, which are not so highly developed as those of speech, 
are next affected ; delicate, lately developed movements, as writ- 
ing, feeding himself, etc., are for a time performed inco- ordi- 
nately, but soon they are paralyzed. Next the muscular move- 
ments developed before these are implicated, and the patient can- 
not undress himself or walk straight, and inco-ordination of these 
movements passes into the inability to do them at all. Next the 
activity of the reflex centres of the cord is abolished; the patient 
passes his urine 1 and feces involuntarily. Then the respiratory 
center, which was previously stimulated, becomes paralyzed, 
breathing is difficult, and the face is livid. Lastly, the heart, 
which was also at first stimulated, is paralyzed, £nd the patient 
dies. The depression of the reflex centers of the cord accounts 
for the fact that injuries which would kill a sober man do not 
kill a drunken one, for the heart and respiration, owing to the 
general central depression, are not affected reflexly by them. 

Therapeutics. , y , \ 

External.. — Four parts of alcohol to one of water form : 
the Lotio Spiritus of many pharmacopoeias.- Cotton* or lint 1 
dipped in it are applied to sprained joints, bruises, etc. The- 
alcohol evaporates, cools the part, consequently the vessels 
contract, and inflammation may thus be checked^ At the; 
same time the local anaesthetic effect of the cold relieves the 
pain. In a similar way many varieties of headache may be> 
soothed by bathing the forehead with eau de Cologne. Brandy* 
or some other form of alcohol is often used to bathe the skin in * 
order to harden it, by abstraction of water, and thus prevent the 
formation of bedsores or cracked nipples. Spirit lotions dabbed ■ 
on the skin may, by means of the vascular contraction produced, : 
stop sweating. Alcohol rubbed in, as in the use of Linimentum 



232 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDIC A. 

Camphorae, is commonly employed for its rubefacient effect, to 
aid the absorption of inflammatory products and relieve pain, as 
in chronic rheumatism, myalgia, etc. 

Internal. — Mouth. — A little brandy held in the mouth will 
be a local anaesthetic and relieve toothache. Alcohol is used as 
a gargle of port wine for its power of precipitating albumen and 
acting as an astringent in cases of chronic sore throat, excessive 
salivation, or inflammation of the gums. 

Stomach. — Because it increases the secretion of gastric juice, 
the vascularity and the movements of the stomach, alcohol aids 
digestion. It must only be taken in small quantities, for large 
amounts paralyze the secretion and cause gastritis, and ultimately 
lead to atrophy of the gastric glands. It should be given just 
before or during a meal. It is harmful in acute dyspepsia, but 
for the indigestion of the aged and feeble, or for those who are 
thoroughly exhausted by overwork, it is very valuable, as the 
stomach shares in the general exhaustion. It is also useful be- 
cause it increases the appetite. Owing to its anaesthetic property 
it may relieve painful dyspepsia, and may check vomiting, 
especially if taken with carbonic acid gas, as, for example, in the 
form of champagne or brandy and soda-water, and because it in- 
creases the activity of the gastric movements it may relieve flatu- 
lence. A single dose of strong spirits poured into the stomach is 
often employed with great benefit for its reflex stimulant effects 
on the circulation for those who have fainted, or who are 
collapsed from cold or any other cause. 

Intestines. — Brandy and water will often check diarrhoea. 
Perhaps this is owing to the astringent power of the brandy. 

Fever. — Alcohol has been largely used in all sorts of febrile 
conditions. We have seen that it impairs oxidation by its action 
on the red corpuscles, that it is oxidized and is therefore a food, 
and that it is mildly antipyretic and diaphoretic. These results 
would be beneficial in fever. On the other hand, the accelera- 
tion of the pulse would be distinctly harmful, although it must be 
remembered that very often, for some unexplained reason, alco- 
hol lowers the pulse in fever; the indigestion caused by the taking 



ALCOHOL. 233 

of large quantities, and the liability to depression of the respira- 
tory and cardiac centers, would be very undesirable. The best 
rules are that while alcohol may be given often with immense 
advantage in fever, either to aid digestion, to slow the pulse, as a 
cardiac stimulant if the patient be much collapsed, or to produce 
sleep, yet it may, in any of the ways alluded to, do harm. There- 
fore, when it is being used, the effect must be carefully watched, 
and if the pulse becomes quick and feeble, or, as indicating gas- 
tric irritation, the tongue becomes dry and brown, or the skin be- 
comes hot and dry, or the breathing hurried, or the patient suf- 
fers from insomnia, the alcohol should be stopped. On the other 
hand, if the pulse becomes stronger and slower, the tongue and 
skin moist, the breathing tranquil, and the patient sleeps well, 
the drug is doing good, and may be continued. We have so 
many more powerful diaphoretics and antipyretics that alcohol is 
not often given for these purposes. Of all fevers it is most used 
for acute lobar pneumonia, and, speaking generally, it is most 
likely to be valuable when one object is to keep up the patient's 
strength for a few days only, till the termination of a specific 
fever of short duration ; but it is often given when it is quite un- 
necessary. 

Nervous system. — Alcohol may, as just mentioned, be used as 
a soporific in fever. Many persons who suffer from insomnia 
find that they can sleep better for a glass of whisky and water 
just before going to bed, no doubt because of its depressant 
action upon the highest centres. 

Kidneys and skin. — Alcohol is occasionally given as a diuretic. 
Gin is the best form, because it usually contains some juniper, 
which is also diuretic. Although but little alcohol is excreted by 
the kidneys, it seems to be particularly irritant to the urethra in 
cases of gonorrhoea and gleet, and some authorities consider that 
chronic Bright' s disease may be induced by alcohol. Almost the 
only use made of its diaphoretic effect is as a help to cure a cold 
in the head, for which purpose a strong glass of spirits and water 
may be taken immediately before going to bed. 



234 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Toxicology. 

Large doses of alcohol will produce death, either instantly by reflex 
stoppage of the heart, or later by cardiac and respiratory depression after ab- 
sorption. 

Chronic poisoning causes so many diseases that it is really the part of 
a text-book upon medicine to enumerate them. Very often confirmed drunkards, 
particularly if they take much spirits, are very thin; this is probably due to the 
fact that strong spirits cause such marked indigestion that sufficient nourishing 
food is not absorbed. Other drunkards are fat, especially if they drink beer. 
Chronic gastritis, cirrhosis of the liver, gout, peripheral neuritis, delirium 
tremens, mania, and perhaps chronic Bright's disease, may all be directly due* 
to excessive indulgence in alcohol. It renders patients particularly liable to 
phthisis, and makes them bad subjects for withstanding any severe illness,, 
especially pneumonia, or to undergo severe surgical operations. 

CHLOROFORMUM VENALE. 

Commercial Chloroform. 

Chloroform. CHC1 3 . 

Source. — Heat water and alcohol in a still to ioo° F., then add 
chlorinated lime and slaked lime; chloroform distils over. It is believed that 
it is formed in the three following stages: — (i) Aldehyde and hydrochloric 
acid are formed. C 2 H 5 OH -{- Cl 2 = C 2 H 4 -f- 2HCI. (2) More chlorine 
acting on the aldehyde forms chloral and hydrochloric acid. C 2 H 4 + 6C1 
= C 2 HC1 3 + 3HCI. (3) The slaked lime converts the chloral into chloroform 
and formate of lime. 2C 2 HC1 3 -f- Ca20H = 2CHC1 3 + Ca(CH0 2 ) 3 . The 
use of the slaked lime is considered to be superfluous and the process of the 
pharmacopoeia scarcely differs from this. - 

Characters. — A colorless, heavy liquid, sp. gr. 1.470, of a sweetish 
taste and a peculiar odor. It imparts a green color to flame. Solubility,- — 1 
in 200 of water, in which it sinks in heavy drops; 10 in 7 of spirit; freely in 
ether, olive oil, or turpentine. 

Impurities. — Hydrocarbons, shown by darkening with sulphuric acid. 
Non-volatile compounds, shown by not completely evaporating, and by un- 
pleasant odor. Acids. Free chlorine. 

Preparations. 

i. Chloroformum Purificatum. — Purified chloroform. 

Source.— Take commercial chloroform, which should contain at 
least 98 per cent, of chloroform, 200 parts ; to which 40 parts of sulph- 
uric acid is added, with shaking for twenty-four hours. To the lighter 
liquid 10 parts of carbonate of sodium is added, previously dissolved 
in water. The chloroform is separated, mixed with two parts of lime 






CHLOROFORM. ' 235 

and distilled at a temperature below 153 F>> until the residue, in the 
retort, is reduced to 2 parts. 

Characters.— A heavy, colorless, diffusive liquid of characteristic 
odor. Sp. gr. 1.485 to 1.490. 

Dose, 2 to 20 m. 

2. Linimentum Chloroformi. — Commercial chloroform 40 ; soap 
liniment, 60. 

3. Mistura Chloroformi. — Purified chloroform, 8; camphor, 2; 
fresh yolk of egg, 10; water, 80. 

Dose, i to 4 fl. dr. 

4. Spirit us Chloroformi. Synonym. — Chloric ether. Purified 
chloroform, 10; alcohol, 90. Strength. — I in 10. 

Dose, Yz to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Chloroform in many respects acts like alcohol, 
but it is more powerful. Thus if allowed to evaporate on the 
skin it produces cold ; therefore the vessels at the point of appli- 
cation contract, and at the same time local anaesthesia is 
induced. If the vapor be confined, or if chloroform be rubbed 
into the skin, it acts as an irritant. The vessels dilate, the 
part becomes red, and there is a sense of heat. This rubefacient 
effect may pass on to vesication. 

Internal. — Mouth. — If concentrated, it produces irritation 
and a burning sensation. If dilute, it has a sweetish taste, 
which renders Aqua Chloroformi of the B. P. (o. 5 per cent. solu+ 
tion in water) a valuable vehicle for the administration of nauseous 
drugs. It reflexly gives rise to an increased secretion of saliva, 
and is a local anaesthetic. 

Stomach. — The action of chloroform is very like that of 
alcohol. Large doses cause marked gastro-intestinal irritation, 
Small doses produce a feeling of warmth, dilatation of the gastric 
vessels, an increased secretion of gastric juice, and more regular 
and more powerful gastric movements. It is perhaps slightly 
astringent to the intestines. 

Absorption. — It is absorbed into the blood from the stomach 
and intestines, and, if given as vapor, from the lungs, but it is 



236 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

very uncertain what changes it subsequently undergoes. Prob- 
ably most of it is decomposed, but some is certainly eliminated 
in the breath and some in the urine, and it has been stated that 
it may be found in the blood of those who have been poisoned 
by it. 

Nervous system. — Chloroform is an excellent instance of the 
law of dissolution (see p. 92), and also of the well-known fact 
that drugs which, in small doses stimulate any part, in large doses 
often depress it The phenomena resulting from the inhalation 
of chloroform are commonly divided into three stages 

First stage. — This is, at first, one of general stimulation, the 
highest functions being the most stimulated, usually unevenly, so 
that the patient is somewhat incoherent. The imagination is 
momentarily excited, and he experiences a general feeling of 
warmth and comfort spreading over the entire body. The mind, 
from the irregular excitation, is confused. Sight and hearing are 
stimulated, he experiences sensations of light and hears noises. 
The stimulation of all these higher functions is very transitory, 
and he quickly begins to lose consciousness; he may be aware 
that people around him are talking without knowing what they 
are saying, but soon he hears and sees nothing. Sometimes dur- 
ing the early part of this stage he may laugh or cry. The inabil- 
ity to see and hear is quickly followed by considerable blunting 
of general sensation. At the same time that these higher func- 
tions are being depressed the lower motor functions are excited ; 
he will kick and fight, throwing his arms and legs about, so that 
much strength maybe required to hold him down, and he will shout 
and talk incoherent nonsense very loudly. Almost coincidently 
the stimulation of the lower centres sets in ; the pulse is increased 
in frequency, and there is throbbing of the heart and great ves- 
sels. The first inhalation or two may produce a choking sensa- 
tion and a stoppage of breathing, which is often voluntary; but 
soon the respirations are increased in frequency. The blood- 
pressure at first rises a little, and the face may be flushed. The 
pupils usually dilate. 

Second stage. — This is best called that of depression. Some 



CHLOROFORM 237 

authors call it the stage of excitement, because the excitation of 
the motor centres may be continued into it. It is important to 
remember that there is no sharp boundary line between the various 
stages, they pass insensibly into one another. In this stage the 
depression of the highest functions continues, so that the patient 
becomes completely unconscious, and he appears to be in a deep 
sleep. He sees, hears and feels nothing, hence chloroform is 
called a general anaesthetic. The excitement of the motor 
functions passes into depression, and he ceases to shout and strug- 
gle. Some of the reflex centres are depressed, so that when the 
cornea is touched the eye does not shut. The pupil is con- 
tracted. The stimulation of the cardiac and respiratory appar- 
atus gives way to depression, the pulse and respirations become 
less frequent and less strong. The vaso-motor centre is depressed, 
blood-pressure falls. As he cannot feel pain, and the reflex activ- 
ity is so lowered that the heart will not be reflexly inhibited by 
the shock of an operation, this is the period at which to operate 
safely. 

Third stage. — In this there is a total abolition of reflex excit- 
ability. Even the lowest reflex centres of the cord are depressed, 
so that the patient may pass his urine and faeces involuntarily ; 
all muscular tone is abolished, and consequently the muscles are 
quite flaccid. Some of them, as those of the arm, were probably 
in this condition towards the end of the second stage. The 
pupil is widely dilated, probably because of the commencing 
asphyxia. This is the period to which the administration is 
pushed to facilitate the reduction of dislocations, or to enable the 
abdominal viscera to be felt through the abdominal wall. If still 
more chloroform is given the depression of the cardiac, respira- 
tory and vaso-motor centres continues, the pulse becomes feeble 
and irregular, and the heart finally stops in diastole. At last not 
only its central nervous apparatus but its muscular tissue is de- 
pressed, so that it will not respond to mechanical stimulation. 
The respiratory movements become slight and irregular, with 
very long pauses between them, and as a result the patient is more 
or less asphyxiated. The blood -pressure gradually falls to zero. 



2$8 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

There has been much dispute as to whether chloroform kills by 
the heart or the respiration. In the United States it has been 
generally believed that death is from depression of the cardiac 
centres. 

The recovery from chloroform also illustrates the law of disso- 
lution. The lowest functions, such as muscular tone, are the 
first to reappear; but the patient does not usually regain his men- 
tal equilibrium for hours. 

With the exception of its local action on the skin and ali- 
mentary canal, and its last effect on the cardiac muscle, chloro- 
form acts entirely on the central nervous system. Even the 
peripheral nerves are not affected, unless it be just before death. 

Vomiting is very liable to occur during the administration of 
chloroform, and its advent is often made known by pallor and 
wide dilatation of the previously contracted pupil. Immediately 
before death the pupil may be either dilated or contracted. 

Therapeutics. 

External.— Chloroform is employed in the form of the lini- 
ment to produce rubefacient and irritant effects in cases of 
chronic rheumatism, myalgia, and chronic inflammations. 

Internal.— It may be used as a local anaesthetic for tooth- 
ache, the tooth being plugged with a piece of cotton soaked 
in chloroform. It disguises the taste of nauseous medicines, and 
therefore Aqua Chloroformi (see p. 235) is a very common vehicle, 
and Spiritus Chloroformi is much used as a flavoring agent. In 
the stomach it acts like alcohol, and is given in the same varieties 
of dyspepsia as are benefited by that drug. Small doses may be 
used as a cardiac stimulant. 

Inhalation.— It is inhaled to abolish sensations of pain, 
whether from surgical operations, biliary, renal, and intestinal 
colic, or parturition. In the last case but little need be given. 
It is also inhaled to relax muscular spasm, as in the reduction of 
dislocations or herniae, or for the relaxation of muscles for diag- 
nostic purposes, as, for example, when we wish to feel the ab- 
dominal viscera thoroughly, or to see whether a swelling is a 



CHLOROFORM. 239 

phantom tumor; or, lastly, it is inhaled to relax spasm in cases 
of tetanus, hydrophobia, or other varieties of convulsions. The 
A.C.E. mixture, which consists of alcohol i vol., chloroform 2 
vols., and pure ether 3 vols., is very commonly employed for all 
these purposes. 

The following points should be attended to in the administra- 
tion of chloroform : 

1. The anaesthetizer must be skilled, and give his attention 
exclusively to the production of narcosis. . 

2. The respiration and pulse should be carefully watched for 
any signs of failure. 

3. The operation should never be begun till reflex action is 
profoundly depressed, that is to say, till the stage of muscular 
relaxation has commenced. Many patients have been lost from 
neglect of this precaution, for the stimulus of the knife has 
reflexly stopped the heart. It is a common and dangerous error 
to think that, because the operation is trivial, it may be begun 
early; most of the deaths from chloroform have taken place 
when the operation has been slight. 

4. Great care must be exercised if the heart is fatty or feeble 
from any cause, or if the patient suffer from disease of the lungs, 
or if he be very old. 

5. In operations about the mouth care must be taken to see 
that no blood gets down the trachea. 

6. It is desirable to have the stomach empty, therefore no 
solid food should be given for some hours before the administra- 
tion. The patient's head must be so directed during vomiting 
that no vomited matters can get into the larynx. 

7. False teeth should be taken out of the mouth. 

8. The chloroform must be pure. 

9. It should not be too concentrated. About 5 per cent, of 
chloroform to 95 per cent, of air is a good mixture. 

10. The head should be a little raised, and the lower jaw 
held up so that- the tongue shall not fall back over the larynx. 

1 1 . Special care must be taken when the operation necessi- 
tates awkward positions, especially if respiration is interfered 



240 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

with, as in the lateral position used in obstetrical, gynaecological 
and renal cases. 

12. Chloroform should never be administered without an elec- 
tric battery and an hypodermic syringe, in good order, being at 
hand. Nitrite of amyl, ether, brandy and ammonia should be 
in readiness. If the breathing becomes very weak, or stops al- 
together, artificial respiration should at once be commenced, the 
tongue being pulled forward by forceps to allow free entry of air 
to the lungs. The face and abdomen should be flicked with wet 
towels, a capsule of nitrite of amyl may be inhaled, and ether or 
brandy injected subcutaneously. It is doubtful whether galvani- 
zation over the cardiac area is any use; perhaps it does harm. If 
symptoms of improvement do not appear at once the patient 
should be inverted. Artificial respiration should be maintained 
at least an hour or so, even if there is no sign of returning life ; 
and if there is the slightest evidence of a cardiac beat, or a single 
automatic respiratory movement, artificial respiration must be 
persevered in even for many hours. If the face be pale, the head 
should be lowered and nitrite of amyl is especially likely to be 
useful. In spite of all care in administration and the observance 
of all precautions, one death takes place in about three thousand 
administrations. 

iETHER. 

Ethylic Ether. Symbol, (C 2 H 5 ) 2 0. Synonym. — Sulphuric ether. 

Source. — Stronger alcohol is distilled with sulphuric acid. Hydrogen- 
ethyl sulphate (sulphovinic acid) and water are first formed. H 2 S0 4 -|-C 2 H 5 , 
OH=C 2 H 5 ,HS0 4 -[-H 2 0. This sulphovinic acid is further acted upon by 
alcohol. C 2 H 5 ,HS0 4 +C 2 H 5 ,OH=(C 2 H 5 ) 2 0+H 2 S0 4 . This process is theo- 
retically continuous, the sulphuric acid last formed again acting on fresh alco- 
hol as it is supplied. The ether is freed from water by re-distillation with 
calcium chloride and lime. 

Characters. — A colorless, light, volatile liquid, with a burning taste 
and peculiar odor. It is very inflammable, boils below I05 F., and burns 
with a white flame. Sp. gr. 0.750. Strength. — 74 per cent, of pure ether, 
and 26 per cent, of alcohol. 

Impurities. — Water, and fixed impurities. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 



ETHER. 241 

Preparations. 

1. ^ther Fortior. — Stronger Ether. (C 2 H 5 ) 2 0. Wash ether 
with water, let it stand with fresh lime and chloride of calcium, and 
distil. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid, sp. gr. 0.716 to 0.725 ; boils at 
98.6 F. Should contain about 6 per cent, of alcohol and a little water, 

2. Spiritus /Etheris.— Ether, 30; alcohol, 70. 
Dose, }£ to 1 fl. dr. 

3. Oleum ^thereum. — Ethereal oil. A volatile liquid composed 
of equal volumes of heavy oil of wine and of stronger ether. Alcohol, 
24 ; sulphuric acid, 54 ; distilled water, I ; stronger ether, a sufficient 
quantity ; by distillation. 

Characters. — A transparent, nearly colorless volatile liquid, of a 
peculiar, aromatic ethereal odor, a pungent, refreshing, bitterish taste, 
and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. 0.910. Used to prepare spiritus aetheris 
compositus. 

4. Spiritus ^theris Compositus. Synonym. — Hoffmann's 
anodyne. Stronger ether, 30 parts; alcohol, 67 parts; ethereal oil, 
3 parts. 

Dose, ^ to 2 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Ether evaporates very quickly, producing great 
cold, and consequently the part to which it has been applied 
becomes white from the contraction of the vessels. The cold is 
sufficient to cause such marked local anaesthesia that the pain 
of slight operations, performed upon the part anaesthetized, cannot 
be felt. To produce this result ether is best applied as a fine 
spray. If it be rubbed in, or evaporation be prevented, it, like 
alcohol or chloroform, is an irritant. 

Internal. — In the mouth and stomach also it acts like chlo- 
roform or alcohol. Thus ether causes a burning taste in the 
mouth, an increase of the saliva, of the gastric secretion and gastric 
movements, and dilatation of the vessels of the stomach. Con- 
sequently it is carminative and aids digestion. Directly it reaches 
the stomach it reflexly excites tfee heart, increasing the force 
and frequency of the pulse, and causing a rise of blood-pressure ; 
it is one of the best cardiac stimulants we have. In the same 



242 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

way it excites respiration. It is quickly absorbed, and its stimu- 
lating influence on the heart and respiration is continued. It is 
thus a good instance of a rapidly diffusible stimulant. It is also 
antispasmodic. 

Nervous system. — Ether is a powerful general anaesthetic. 
The phenomena and stages of ether anaesthesia are so like those 
of chloroform anaesthesia that the description already given 
(p. 236) will suffice. The following differences, however, should 
be noticed : 

(1) The heart is paralyzed with much greater difficulty by 
ether than by chloroform. 

(2) The same is true of the vaso-motor centre. 

(3) And also of the respiratory centre. 

(4) Ether is much more irritant to the respiratory mucous 
membrane, and hence is more liable to increase bronchitis in 
those already suffering from it. 

(5) With ether the stage of stimulation is more protracted, 
therefore there is more struggling, and the anaesthetic stage is not 
reached so soon. 

(6) Ether must be given nearly pure, about 30 per cent, of air 
to 70 of ethereal vapor ; hence it is more difficult to administer. 

(7) The smell of ether is more disagreeable, and lingers about 
the patient longer. 

(8) Ether being very inflammable cannot be used in the close 
neighborhood of an artificial light. 

Ether is more generally used as an anaesthetic in the United 
States. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Ether, allowed to evaporate, may be used to 
cause local anaesthesia in cases of neuralgia. An ether spray is 
occasionally employed to produce local anaesthesia for small 
operations ; but as the ether makes the skin hard and brawny the 
operation must be quite superficial, and even then there is much 
subsequent tingling and pain. 

Internal. — Stomach. — It may be used for the same classes of 



ACETIC ETHER. 243 

dyspepsia as chloroform or alcohol, and is often employed as a 
carminative to expel gas in flatulent dyspepsia. 

Heart, — Administered subcutaneously (dose, 10 — 15 Tt[) or 
by the mouth, ether is an excellent cardiac stimulant of great 
value in fainting, cardiac failure, or palpitation^ its advantage over 
chloroform and alcohol, being that it is more rapid in its action. 
It is very useful as an antispasmodic during an attack of asthma. 

Inhalation. — Ether is inhaled for the same purposes as chloro- 
form. There is great divergence of opinion which is the safer 
anaesthetic. All the published statistics in which the two are 
contrasted appear to show that ether is much safer, and this i s 
what might have been expected from the contrast between the 
two already given; but it is alleged that chloroform is often ad- 
ministered carelessly, and that with proper care it is as safe as ether. 

iETHER ACETICUS. 
Acetic Ether. Symbol, C 2 H 5 ,C 2 H 3 2 . Synonym. — Acetate of ethyl. 

Source. — A mixture of acetate of sodium, sulphuric acid and alcohol is 
distilled. C 2 H 5 ,OH+XaC 2 H 3 2 -|-H 2 S0 4 ==C 2 H 5 ,C 2 H30 2 + NaHS0 4 +H 2 0. 
The distillate is purified from acid and water by digestion with carbonate of 
potassium. 

Characters. — A transparent and colorless liquid, sp. gr. 0.889 to 0.897. 
Solubility. — I in 1 7 of water, freely in spirit or ether. It is used in spiritus 
odoratus and tinctura ferri acetatis. 

Dose, 20 to 60 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
It acts like ether, as a stimulant, antispasmodic, and carmina- 
tive, but has a pleasanter taste. 

Class III. — Nitrites. 

Spiritus Athens Nitrosi and Amyl Nitris. 

Both of these dilate the peripheral vessels, and increase the rapidity of 
the heart. 

SPIRITUS .ETHERIS NITROSI. 

Spirit of Nitrous Ether. Synonym. — Sweet spirits of nitre. 
This is a solution in spirit of several substances, the chief being ethyl 
nitrite, aldehyde, acetic acid, and acetic ether. In many commercial specimens 
there is very little ethyl nitrite. 



244 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Source. — Distil a mixture of alcohol, nitric acid and sulphuric acid, and 
dissolve the distillate in alcohol. 

Characters. — Transparent, nearly colorless, mobile, inflammable, 
slightly acid liquid of an ethereal odor and a sweetish cooling taste. Sp. gr. 
0.823 to 0.825. 

Incompatibles. — Iodide of potassium, sulphate of iron, tincture of guaia- 
cum, gallic and tannic acids, and emulsions. 

Impurity/ — Excess of acetic acid. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Spirit of nitrous ether evaporates when it is ap- 
plied externally, and a slightly anaesthetic effect is produced. 

Internal. — It combines the action of the ether with that of 
the nitrites contained in it. Because of the ether it is a dif- 
fusable stimulant, a stomachic and a carminative. Be- 
cause of the nitrites it acts like nitrite of amyl ; but as the ethyl 
nitrite is so diluted, its action in this direction is feeble : thus 
it only moderately dilates the vessels, and except in 
poisonous doses probably does not affect the blood. The dilata- 
tion of the vessels leads to a diaphoretic effect on the skin, a 
diuretic effect on the kidney, and a lowering of arterial blood- 
pressure. The dilatation of the cutaneous vessels, the sweating, 
and perhaps the changes of the blood, produce a slight antipy- 
retic influence. It is obvious that in these effects the nitrites will 
to some extent be aided by the ether. 

Therapeutics. 

For its diaphoretic and slight antipyretic effects it is commonly 
given in mild febrile attacks, such as a common cold. It is also 
used as a diuretic in chronic Bright' s disease, and cardiac and 
pulmonary diseases accompanied by oedema. 

AMYL NITRIS. 

Nitrite of Amyl. Symbol, C 5 H n N0 2 . 

Source. — By action of nitric acid upon amylic alcohol. HN0 3 +C 5 H n ,OH 
=C 5 H 11 N0 2 - r -2H 2 0. Purify the distillate with carbonate of sodium. 

Characters. — An ethereal liquid of a pale-yellow color, and of ethereal, 
fruity odor and an aromatic taste. Sp. gr. 0.874. Volatilizes between 262 
and 270 F. Soluble in ether, chloroform or alcohol, but not in water. 



NITRITE OF AMYL. 245 

Impurities. — Free acid and nitrate of amyl. 

Dose, 2 to 5 m., cautiously inhaled from a handkerchief in which a glass 
capsule containing the nitrite of amyl has been crushed; ^ to 1 m. inter- 
nally, dissolved in spirit. 

Action. 

External.— Locally applied it diminishes the activity of the 
sensory nerves, but they quickly recover. 

Internal. — Nitrite of amyl is rarely given by the mouth, so 
the following account will refer to the effects of inhalation. 

Circulation.— From a. medical point of view by far the most 
important effects of nitrite of amyl are those produced upon the 
heart and vessels. Within a minute of inhalation the face 
flushes, the heart beats very rapidly and violently, there is 
a throbbing in the head, and the vessels, e.g. the carotids, may 
be seen to pulsate actively. Headache, giddiness, dilatation of 
the pupils, and increased respiratory movements quickly super- 
vene. All the vessels of the body rapidly dilate, hence the flush- 
ing. They may be actually seen to widen in the ear of a rabbit 
or in the retina. This is due to a direct action on the muscular 
coats of the arterioles, for it happens if the cord is destroyed. 
The blood-pressure and arterial tension, of course, fall very low. 
The increase in the rate of the pulse is unaccompanied by any 
alteration in the force of the beat ; it is apparently due to a 
depressing influence on the inhibitory vagus centre. In toxic 
doses the heart may be arrested in diastole from direct action on 
the cardiac muscle. 

Respiration. — The rapidity and depth of respiration are at 
first increased, probably from central stimulation; the respiratory 
centres are later depressed, the breathing becoming slower and 
shallower, and usually death finally occurs from paralytic asphyxia 
of central origin. 

Nervous system. — Many of the symptoms referable to the ner- 
vous system are secondary effects of the dilatation of the vessels 
of the brain and spinal cord. Such are the throbbing, sense of 
fullness, giddiness and headache noticed directly after inhalation. 
The headache may remain some time. If much has been inhaled 



246 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

there is unsteadiness of gait and general restlessness. The pupil 
dilates, and disturbances of vision are present. The motor cen- 
tres of the cord are profoundly depressed, therefore after large 
doses reflex actions are abolished. The function of sensory nerves, 
motor nerves, and muscles is depressed by the local application of 
the drug to them, but not after inhalation until shortly before 
death. 

Temperature. — Nitrite of amyl causes this to fall considerably, 
both in fever and health. The fall is due to the peripheral vas- 
cular dilatation, and if large doses are given, to the changes in 
the blood. 

Urine. — The drug probably escapes in the urine; it is slightl) 
diuretic, and may cause the excretion of a body reducing Fen- 
ling' s solution. 

Blood. — Outside the body nitrites greatly diminish oxidation, 

and the same takes place in the blood. After the inhalation of 

a considerable amount (more than is usually given to a man) the 

arterial and venous blood both become a uniform chocolate color. 

This is due to the formation of methaemoglobin. The blood can 

no longer absorb oxygen, and hence its oxidizing power is 

abolished. 

Therapeutics. 

Heart and blood-vessels. — Dr. Brunton in 1867 observed that 
in a case of angina pectoris the peripheral vessels were strongly 
contracted during an attack of pain. This induced him to make 
the patient inhale nitrite of amyl, and it was found that the ves- 
sels dilated and the pain passed off. Inhalation of nitrite of 
amyl is now used for all sorts of cardiac pain, especially when it 
comes on in paroxysms. Generally the drug affords relief in a 
minute or so after inhalation, but by no means always. We do 
not sufficiently understand the pathology of angina pectoris to 
know how it acts. It may be by dilating the peripheral vessels, 
but against that view is the fact that they are not always contract- 
ed during attacks of angina pectoris, and nitrite of amyl may 
relieve patients in whom the vessels are not contracted. The 
attacks of pain common in thoracic aneurism may be relieved by 



CHLORAL. 247 

it. It is used to avert the pallor sometimes seen during the 
administration of chloroform. The peculiar hot flushes expe- 
rienced by some women during the menopause are benefited by 
inhalation of it. 

Nervous system.— -If it is inhaled when the aura is felt an 
epileptic fit may sometimes be prevented. Because in migraine 
the vessels of the head are contracted, it has been used, and 
sometimes successfully, for this complaint. Its depressing action 
on the cord has suggested its employment in tetanus and strych- 
nine poisoning. 

Occasionally the inhalation of nitrite of amyl relieves an 
attack of asthma. It has been given in whooping-cough, sea- 
sickness, and cholera, but without much good effect. 

CLASS IV.— Hypnotics. 
CHLORAL. 

Chloral. Synonym. — Hydrate of Chloral. Symbol, C 2 HC1 3 0, H 2 0. 

Source. — Anhydrous alcohol is saturated with dry chlorine, and thus 
chloral (C 2 HC1 3 0,H 2 0) is formed. It is purified by sulphuric acid, then by lime. 

Characters. — Colorless crystals of a pungent, peculiar odor, and a bitter 
taste. Easily melted by gentle heat. Solubility. — Freely in distilled water, 
alcohol and ether. Forms a fluid when rubbed up with an equal weight of 
camphor. 

Incompatibles. — All alkalies decompose it. 

Impurities. — Hydrochloric acid and oily impurities. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

ACTION. 

External. — It is a powerful antiseptic. Locally applied 
it is irritant, causing vesication. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Unless diluted, chloral is a 
gastric irritant; large doses, therefore, may give rise to vomiting 
and purging. 

Blood. — It is readily absorbed, and circulates in the blood 
unchanged. It was formerly thought that as alkalies convert it 
into chloroform and formic acid, this change would take place in 
the blood, and consequently Liebreich suggested its use as an 
hypnotic. It is now known that this view is wrong, for no chlo- 



248 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

form can be found in the blood of chloralized animals, nor in the 
urine unless that fluid is alkaline, in which case chloral is 
decomposed by the alkali in the urine. 

Circulation. — Chloral depresses the heart, large doses 
having this action to a considerable degree. This is due to a 
local effect on the organ itself; probably both the muscular sub- 
stance and the nerves contained in it are affected. The pulse, 
which may at first be slightly quickened, soon becomes slow, fee- 
ble, and irregular, and the heart finally stops in diastole. The 
vaso-motor centre is depressed, and consequently the ves- 
sels dilate. As a result of these actions on the heart and the 
vessels the blood-pressure falls. 

Respiration. — -After large doses the respirations become slow 
and full, and after toxic doses they become irregular and shallow 
before finally ceasing. This is due to the action of chloral on 
the respiratory centre. 

Temperature.— Targe doses cause this to fall, probably by 
diminishing the production of heat. 

Brain.- — Chloral is a powerful hypnotic, acting directly 
on the brain. The stage of excitation, if it exists, is very short. 
Soon after taking a moderate dose the patient is overcome by 
sleep, which lasts several hours, and is indistinguishable from 
natural sleep. On waking there is neither confusion nor head- 
ache, and he feels refreshed. Large doses produce coma. The 
pupil is always contracted. 

Spinal cord. — At first the anterior cornua may be slightly 
stimulated, but Soon they are depressed, and there is consequently 
paralysis and loss of reflex excitability. The motor nerves and 
the muscles are not affected, nor are the sensory nerves unless the 
dose is very large, when there may be anaesthesia 

It will be observed that chloral is a powerful general de- 
pressant, chiefly of the cerebrum, but also of the respiratory 
centre, the vaso motor centre, the anterior cornua, the produc- 
tion of heat, and the heart. It is only because it depresses the 
cerebrum much earlier than any other part of the body that we 
can use it as an hypnotic. 



CHLORAL. 249 

Therapeutics. 

External.— The compound with camphor has been em- 
ployed as a local anodyne for neuralgia, and may be applied to 
aching teeth. 

Internal. — Chloral is largely used for its hypnotic effect. 
Its great advantages over many other hypnotics are that doses 
sufficient to produce a deep sleep are not large enough to cause 
gastro-intestinal irritation, cardiac and respiratory depression, and 
the other harmful effects. Chloral is certain in its action ; it 
quickly produces sleep; and there are no bad after effects. 
Children take it well. 

It is especially useful in simple insomnia from overwork, 
worry, etc. Its disadvantages are that it does not relieve pain at 
all, and it should therefore not be used for insomnia due to this 
cause ; and that, as it depresses the heart and respirations, it must 
be given carefully in diseases of the heart and lungs. In febrile 
insomnia it is very valuable in the early stages, but must be given 
cautiously, later, when there is any danger of cardiac weakness. 
It does not relieve the distress and cough of diseases of the heart 
and lungs. It has been used as a cerebral depressant in delirium 
tremens, puerperal convulsions, and mania, but very large doses 
are required, and consequently the results must be watched with 
great care. 

From its action on the spinal cord, chloral has been used, and 
sometimes with success, in tetanus, whooping-cough, incontinence 
of urine and strychnine poisoning. 

Toxicology. 

Acute Poisoning. — As will be inferred from the action of chloral, the 
symptoms of poisoning by it are deep coma; a weak, feeble, irregular, slow 
pulse, which may become quick before death ; diminished frequency of respi- 
ration and consequent lividity ; and abolition of reflex movements The sur- 
face of the skin is cold, and the temperature is subnormal. 

Treatment. — Give emetics or wash out the stomach. Keep up the tem- 
perature by hot bottles, hot blankets, friction and massage. Prevent sleep by 
the injection of hot strong coffee into the rectum, shouting at the patient, hit- 
ting him, flapping with wet towels, bathing, etc. Give a subcutaneous injec- 
22 



250 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

tion of strychnine, because of its stimulant action on the anterior cornua. Use 
inhalations of amyl nitrite to stimulate the heart, and artificial respiration if 
necessary. 

Chronic Poisoning. — The taking of chloral is a vice to which many 
persons are addicted. A craving for it is soon established. The chief symp- 
toms of chronic chloral poisoning are gastro-intestinal irritation, a great lia- 
bility to erythematous eruptions, dyspnoea dependent upon the cardiac and 
respiratory depression, and general weakness. There may be disturbance of 
the mental equilibrium, and persons have been known to become permanently 
weak-minded. A slightly larger dose than usual may be quickly fatal. 

Class V.— Antiseptics. 

Carbolic Acid, Sulphocarbolate of Soda, Creasote, and Iodoform. 

ACIDUM CARBOLICUM CRUDUM. 

Crude Carbolic Acid. 

Source. — A liquid obtained during the distillation of coal tar between 
the temperature of 3 3 8° and 374 F., and containing carbolic and cresylic 
acids in variable proportions, together with other substances. 

Characters. — A nearly colorless or reddish-brown liquid of a strongly 
empyreumatic and disagreeable odor, having a benumbing, blanching and 
caustic effect upon the skin and mucous membrane, and a neutral reaction. 

Used only externally. 

ACIDUM CARBOLICUM. 

Carbolic Acid. Symbol, C 6 H 5 HO. Synonyms, — Phenic acid, Phenol, or 

Phenyl alcohol. 

Source. — From coal tar oil by fractional distillation, and purification. 

Characters. — Colorless, interlaced, needle-shaped crystals of a distinctive, 
slightly aromatic odor. Treated with about five per cent, of water, they become 
fluid ; they are very hygroscopic, and hence soon become semi-fluid on expos- 
ure to air. Often reddish from the impurities aurin and rosolic acids, which 
form a red compound by the absorption of carbonic acid and oxygen. Melts 
at 96.8 to 107. 6° F. to an oily liquid. Does not redden litmus paper, coagu- 
lates albumen. Solubility. — 1 in 20 of water, freely in alcohol, fats, and oils. 

Dose, 1 to 2 gr. 

Preparation. 
1. Unguentum Acidi Carbolici. — Carbolic acid, 10; ointment, 90. 



carbolic acid. 25 i 

Action. 

External. — Carbolic acid is a powerful antizymotic, 
rapidly destroying organized ferments, both animal and vegetable. 
Consequently it destroys those of septic diseases, hence it is 
antiseptic. It thus prevents the formation of the products of 
the decompositions which are set up by these organisms. For 
this reason it is disinfectant, and as the products of decompo- 
sition are generally foul-smelling, it is deodorant. It does 
not act so readily on unorganized ferments (enzymes), such* as 
pepsin and ptyalin, but in large doses it likewise destroys their 
activity. Carbolic acid is not so powerful an antizymotic as bi- 
chloride of mercury {see p. 177); for Evans (Guy's Hospital 
Reports, vol. xlvii) found that anthrax spores were not killed in 
twenty- four hours by a solution of 1 in 100, but were killed by a 
solution of 1 in 20 acting for twenty- four hours, but not when it 
acted for only four hours. The bacilli of anthrax were killed by 
solution of 1 in 100 acting for five minutes, 1 in 150 acting for a 
quarter of an hour, 1 in 1 75 acting for half an hour, but were 
unaffected by a solution of 1 in 150 acting for one minute, 1 in 
1 75 acting for a quarter of an hour, 1 in 300 acting for an hour. 
Strengths of 1 in 40 and 1 in 20 are commonly employed in 
surgery. The solution in oil has no antiseptic properties. The 
power of carbolic acid to destroy low organisms makes it an effi- 
cient parasiticide against certain vegetable parasites infesting 
the skin. 

When applied to the skin in weak or moderately strong solu- 
tions, it produces local anaesthesia with a feeling of numb- 
ness, which lasts some hours. If concentrated it acts as an 
irritant and caustic, causing a burning pain, and in a few 
minutes a white spot appears, which becomes red when the acid is 
removed. If the application is prolonged a white eschar or 
slough results. There is no vesication. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — If concentrated, car- 
bolic acid produces the same effect on the mouth as on the skin, 
and is a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant {see Toxicology). In 
the stomach it is converted into a sulphocarbolate, and unless 



252 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

poisonous doses be given, it is so diluted by the gastric contents 
that it loses its antizymotic power. 

Blood — It is not known in what form carbolic acid circulates, 
probably as an alkaline carbolate. 

Circulation. — Medicinal doses have no effect. Large doses 
paralyze the vaso-motor centre in the medulla, and the blood- 
pressure falls. It is not until very large doses have been given 
that the heart is affected, and then its activity is depressed. 

* Respiration. — Small doses have no influence on respiration, 
but large ones accelerate it, probably from stimulation of the 
vagi. Ultimately respiration is paralyzed, and death results. 

Temperature, — This is unaffected by small doses of carbolic 
acid, but large doses cause it to fall, because they diminish the 
production of heat and increase its dissipation. 

Nervous system, — Carbolic acid is a cerebral depressant in 
large doses, for coma is produced by them ; they first stimulate 
the anterior cornua, producing convulsions, but subsequently de- 
press them, causing paralysis. 

Urine. — Much interest attaches to this, for even after moder- 
ate doses of carbolic acid, or absorption from surgical dressings, 
the urine may become dark. This is not due to blood, as 
was once thought, for Dr. Stevenson has shown that there is no 
increase of iron in the urine. After taking carbolic acid, salts of 
sulphocarbolic acid, and glycuronic acid, pyrocatechin and hy- 
drochinon appear in the urine. The last two are oxidated pro- 
ducts of carbolic acid. Pyrocatechin is a dark-colored body, 
and is, no doubt, often the cause of the dark urine ; but this can- 
not be the sole cause, for pyrocatechin can only exist in alkaline 
urines. The presence in the urine of these results of carbolic 
acid is recognized by distilling them over from it, and the sul- 
phates are usually absent. The distillate gives a blue color with 
neutral ferric chloride, and a white crystalline precipitate of 
tribromo-phenol with bromine water, showing the presence of 
sulphocarbolic acid. Some carbolic acid escapes in the other 
excretions; some is burned up in the body. When very large 
doses are given carbolic acid itself may appear in the urine. 



CARBOLIC ACID. 253 



\ 



Therapeutics. 

External.— Carbolic acid is largely used as a deodorant and 
disinfectant for drains, bed-pans, soiled linen, surgical instru- 
ments, the surgeon's hands, etc. Carbolic lotion (i in 40) is 
used to wash wounds to keep them antiseptic, and carbolized 
gauze (which is unbleached cotton gauze medicated with half its 
weight of a mixture of carbolic acid 1, resin 4, paraffin 4) is em- 
ployed as a dressing for the same purpose. A spray of a solution 
of carbolic acid was formerly much used to keep the air around 
the wound antiseptic during an operation, but it is now discarded 
as unnecessary. 

Glycerine of carbolic acid (B. P., 1 to 4) is a* very efficient 
preparation to destroy the fungus of tinea tonsurans or tinea 
versicolor ; for the latter it should be diluted. 

Because of its anaesthetic effect a strong solution (1 in 20) will 
relieve itching from any cause. Carbolized vapor has been 
inhaled in phthisis, but by the time it reaches the lungs it is far 
too dilute to have any action on the tubercle bacilli. 

Internal. — Mouth. — The glycerine, if diluted, may be ap- 
plied as a stimulant to the mouth in aphthous stomatitis, or when 
any indolent ulceration is present. A gargle (4 TTL of acidi 
carbolici to 1 fl. oz. of water) is an excellent preparation. The 
glycerine has been used for diphtheria, but probably it does no 
good, except that being a local anaesthetic it soothes pain. A 
piece of cotton soaked in strong carbolic acid will relieve 
pain if placed in a decayed tooth, but care must be taken to 
prevent it from coming in contact with the soft parts by putting 
another piece of dry cotton over it. 

Stomach. — Carbolic acid has been given to relieve flatulence, 
because it was thought that it would prevent decomposition in the 
stomach ; but it is powerless to do this, owing to the degree to 
which the gastric contents dilute it. Some state that it checks 
vomiting and helps to cure dyspepsia, but it is not a remedy which 
is universally regarded as useful for these purposes. It may, how- 
ever, be tried in obstinate cases. It has been given internally as 
an antiseptic in phthisis, but it does no good, and those who give 



254 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

it forget that probably very little carbolic acid reaches the 

lungs. 

Toxicology. 

If carbolic acid is at all concentrated, immediately on swallowing it there 
is an intense burning sensation in the mouth, gullet, and stomach, and white 
eschars form in the mouth. The patient is collapsed, his skin is cold and 
clammy. The breathing becomes more and more feeble and shallow, and 
finally stops. The urine is darkish green. Reflex movements are abolished, 
and ultimately he becomes insensible and comatose. Post mortem. — There 
are white, hard sloughs, with perhaps inflammatory redness round them, in the 
mouth, oesophagus, and stomach. The blood is dark and coagulates imper- 
fectly. In some cases fatty degeneration of the liver and kidneys may be 
found. 

Treatment. ,-^-Any soluble sulphate, such as an ounce of magnesium sul- 
phate or half an ounce of sodium sulphate dissolved in half a pint of water, is 
the natural antidote, because sulphates and carbolic acid form sulphocarbolates 
in the blood, and these are harmless. Before the antidote is given, wash out 
the stomach or use some very quickly acting emetic, as apomorphine given 
hypodermically. Give stimulants freely, such as ether or brandy subcutane- 
ously. Apply hot water bottles and blankets if there are any signs of collapse. 

SODII SULPHOCARBOLAS. 

Sulphocarbolate of Sodium. Symbol, NaC 6 H 5 S0 4 .2H 2 0. 

Source. — Sulphocarbolic acid is formed by adding sulphuric acid to car- 
bolic acid ; carbonate of barium is then added, and sulphocarbolate of barium 
is thus precipitated. This is treated with water and sodium carbonate; a 
solution of sodium sulphocarbolate is formed, and barium carbonate is precipi- 
tated. The solution is evaporated to crystallization. 

Characters. — Colorless, transparent, rhombic prisms, odorless or nearly 
so, soluble in 5 parts of water. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics of Sulphocarbolate of Sodium. 

This substance is like carbolic acid, antiseptic, and may be 
used externally for this purpose. Internally it is occasionally 
given in the hope of controlling gastric fermentation. 

CREASOTUM. 

Creasote. 
Source. — It is obtained by the distillation of Wood tar. It consists of a 
mixture in variable proportions of guaiacol (C 7 H 8 2 ) and creasol (C 8 H 10 O 2 ). 



CREASOTE. 255 

Characters. — A colorless or slightly yellow liquid, with a very strong 
peculiar odor and a burning taste. Sp. gr., 1.035 to 1-085. Solubility. — 
Sparingly in water, freely in alcohol, ether and glacial acetic acid. 

Impurity. — Carbolic acid. 

Incompatible. — Explodes when mixed with oxide of silver. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 2 m. 

Preparation. 

Aqua Creasoti. — Creasote, 1 ; distilled water, 99. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Before the introduction of carbolic acid, creasote was used ex- 
ternally as a stimulating antiseptic, a parasiticide and a slight 
local anaesthetic ; and internally it was given for vomiting and 
flatulence. An aching tooth may be relieved if it is plugged 
with cotton thoroughly moistened in creasote. The most impor- 
tant use of creasote is as a pulmonary antiseptic, administered by 
the mouth, hypodermatically or by inhalation. To Bouchard 
and Gimbert belongs the credit of bringing before the profession, 
the use of creasote in cases of tuberculosis. It can be admin- 
istered in the form of an emulsion with cod-liver oil and acacia ; 
or with the hypophosphites and cod liver oil; or with the syrup 
of wild cherry and acacia, two minims of the creasote being con- 
tained in a teaspoonful of the emulsion or in a mixture of glyce- 
rine and whisky. The dose should be one-half to one minim 
given thrice daily and increased to twenty to twenty-five drops 
in the twenty-four hours, by easy stages. Administered in the 
form of enteric pills (which will dissolve only in the intestinal 
fluids) a daily dosage of forty-five to fifty drops can be reached 
without inconvenience. This method is preferable to that of 
Sommerbrodt which consists in the administration of one minim 
of creasote in two minims of cod-liver oil in capsules. The 
method of hypodermatic injection in sterilized olive oil requires 
a special apparatus, is very tedious, somewhat painful and alto- 
gether irksome to patient and physician. By inhalation it is 
employed with equal parts of alcohol and spirits of chloroform, 
or in alcohol, one part to eight, in a perforated zinc inhaler, of 



256 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

which fifteen drops are placed upon a bit of cotton and used for 

fifteen minutes in every hour. 

If the best beechwood creasote is employed, no untoward 

results are likely to be obtained. If the dose is increased too 

rapidly there may occur some nausea, epigastric uneasiness or 

even vomiting. Disturbance of the kidneys has been feared but 

beyond an occasional pain in the back no other symptoms have 

been noticed, and chemical and microscopical examination of the 

urine has revealed nothing unusual. The stomach symptoms 

have been relieved by the patient placing himself upon his back, 

for an half hour after administration of the remedy. It is quite 

likely that the patients acquire a tolerance, for the daily dose of 

three hundred drops has been given for a considerable time with 

benefit. 

IODOFORMUM. 

Iodoform. Symbol, CHI 3 . 

Source. — Heat together alcohol, iodine, carbonate of potassium, and 
water. C 2 H 6 0+ 4 I 2 +3K 2 C0 3 =CHI,+KCH0 2 +5KI+2H 2 0+3C0 2 . 

Characters.— Small, lustrous, lemon-yellow, hexagonal crystals, with 
an insuppressible odor. Very slightly soluble in water and alcohol, freely in 
fixed and volatile oils, ether and chloroform. It contains more than 90 per 
cent, of iodine. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Iodoformi. — Iodoform, 10; benzoinated lard, 90. 

Action. 

External. — Iodoform is antiseptic and disinfectant, if we 

may judge by the results obtained in clinical practice ; but the 
experimental evidence that it has no power to hinder the devel- 
opment of Staphy loc co cus pyogenes, Bacillus subtilis, and other 
micro-organisms is very strong, for all, except one or two experi- 
menters, state that it has no antiseptic properties. At present we 
have no explanation of these discrepancies. It is probable that 
much of its action is due to the free iodine that is given off from 
it, but in spite of this it is not irritant, but decidedly analgesic. 
It is readily absorbed from wounds. 



IODOFORM. 25 7 

Internal. — Not much is known about the internal action of 
idoform. It is eliminated in all the secretions, but chiefly in the 
urine, as iodine, iodides, and iodates. They may be found in 
the urine for three days after administration of iodoform. 

Therapeutics, 

External. — Iodoform is much used as a local stimulant, an- 
tiseptic and disinfectant. The clinical testimony as to its value 
is overwhelming. 

Its anaesthetic influence diminishes the pain, if there is any, of 
the sores to which it is applied. It is an excellent application for 
all sorts of ulcers, sores and wounds, but especially for tubercu- 
lous and syphilitic ulcerations. Iodoform powder is usually 
sprinkled on them. Wounds are often painted with a solution 
of it in collodion. This is an excellent application. Mixed with 
subnitrate of bismuth, it is useful as an insufflation for ozaena, 
ulcers of the mouth and throat, and tuberculous ulcers of the 
larynx. It has been used in the form of a bougie for the urethra. 
The suppository (B. P., each, 3 grains in 12 of oil of theobroma,) 
is useful in painful conditions of the rectum. It is occasionally 
employed for pruritus, and to relieve the pain of neuralgia. 
Many attempts have been made to get rid of its odor; the best 
way is to dissolve it in volatile oil of camphor or balsam of Peru, 
or to add musk to it. 

Internal. — Iodoform has not been found to be of any use 
internally. It has been tried unsuccessfully in phthisis and 
many other conditions. 

Toxicology. 

Curious symptoms, often severe and sometimes ending in death, are 
occasionally observed after the application of iodoform to a raw surface. 
They are a quick pulse, gastro-intestinal irritation, fever, rapid collapse, mel- 
ancholia, hallucinations, dilated pupils, extensive erythema and perhaps ec- 
zema. These symptoms vary much in severity, and it is rare for more than 
two or three of them to be present at once. Stimulants, diaphoretics and 
sponging the skin with warm water are recommended. 



258 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Class VI. — The Remaining Carbon Compound. 
ACIDUM HYDROCYANICUM DILUTUM. 

Diluted Hydrocyanic Acid. Symbol, HCN. Synonym. — Prussic acid. 

Source. — Distil a mixture of ferrocyanide of potassium, sulphuric acid 
and water, into alcohol and water. 2K 4 FeC 6 N 6 +3H 2 S0 4 =3K 2 S0 4 +6HCN 
+FeK 2 FeC 6 N 6 . The distillate is diluted with water until 100 gr. or no TTL 
treated with nitrate of silver yield 10 gr. of precipitated dried cyanide of sil- 
ver. It is then a 2 per cent, by weight solution. Scheele's prussic acid is a 
4 or 5 per cent, solution. 

Characters. — A colorless, volatile, faintly acid liquid, having an al- 
mond-like odor. Very unstable ; to preserve it best, it should be kept in 
inverted blue stoppered bottles. Old specimens may be inert. Sp. gr. 0.997. 
Strength. — 2 per cent. 

Incompatibles. — Salts of silver, copper and iron, red oxide of mercury, 
and sulphides. 

Impurities. — Sulphuric and hydrochloric acids. 

Dose, 1 to 3 m. 

Action. 

External. — Hydrocyanic acid can pass through the epider- 
mis, and then it paralyzes the terminations of the sensory nerves ; 
thus it is a local anaesthetic and sedative. It is very rap- 
idly absorbed from raw surfaces, and may cause poisoning if 
applied to them. 

Internal. — Alimentary tract. — It is quickly absorbed by 
mucous membranes, and has the same anaesthetic and sedative 
effect on the mouth and stomach as on the skin. It must always 
be employed very dilute.' A single drop of the pure acid placed 
inside the eye of even a moderately large animal will kill it in- 
stantly. 

Blood. — If death takes place almost immediately after the 
administration of the drug, all the blood in the body is a bright 
arterial tint; but if death does not occur for some little time 
(within half an hour), the blood is of a dark venous color. The 
primary transitory reddening of the venous blood is due to the 
fact that the haemoglobin in it is oxidized ; we do not know the 
cause of this. The subsequent darkening of the arterial blood is 
due to the fact that it has lost its oxygen, and contains carbonic 



HYDROCYANIC ACID. 259 

acid gas ; why this should be is not certain, but probably it de- 
pends upon the asphyxia consequent upon the action of hydro- 
cyanic acid on the respiratory centre. If blood be shaken up with 
prussic acid, after some time oxyhemoglobin is converted into 
cyanohaemoglobin, the oxygen being turned out. Prussic acid 
added to drawn blood alters the shape of the red blood- corpuscles. 
Neither of these actions is seen in life, for sufficient prussic acid 
to cause them would kill before they could take take place. 

Heart. — Large doses cause instantaneous diastolic arrest. 
As this is also true if the drug is applied locally, we may con- 
clude that large doses paralyze the heart directly. But prussic 
acid acts also on the cardiac centre in the medulla. A small 
dose will cause a slowing of the pulse from stimulation of the 
vagus centre, and the stoppage from larger doses is due both to 
the direct action on the heart and to that on the medulla. 

Vaso-motor system. — The vaso-motor centre in the medulla is 
first briefly stimulated, but soon profoundly paralyzed ; blood- 
pressure therefore falls very low. 

Respiration, — The respiratory centre is paralyzed even 
more readily than the cardiac or vaso-motor centres, conse- 
quently the respirations quickly diminish both in force and fre- 
quency. Unless the heart has been instantaneously stopped by 
a large dose, asphyxia is the cause of death, and the heart goes 
on beating after the respirations have stopped. Occasionally, if 
the dose be small, all three centres may be at first very transitorily 
stimulated, so that for a few seconds the pulse and respirations 
may be increased in frequency, and blood-pressure may rise. 

Nervous System. — Cerebrum. — Medicinal doses of prussic 
acid have no effect on the cerebrum. Toxic doses cause deep 
insensibility and coma. In man convulsions are rarely seen ; in 
animals they are common. It is not known how far the coma 
and convulsions are due to the direct effect on the brain, the 
altered circulation through it, or the asphyxia. 

Peripheral nerves and muscles. — In animals dead of prussic 
acid poisoning these are unexcitable. This paralyzing effect is due 
to direct action on the nerves and muscles themselves, for it does 



260 INORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

not occur in the peripheral part of a limb if it is connected with 
the rest of the body only by its nerve. In this case, as no blood 
is circulating through the distal part of the limb, no prussic acid 
reaches it; but if the acid be applied locally to the severed limb, 
the nerve and muscles are paralyzed. This explains the local 
anaesthetic effect of prussic acid. 

Shortly before death the spinal cord is paralyzed. The pupil 
is dilated. We do not know of any effect of prussic acid on the 
kidneys, nor how it is excreted. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Lotions of a strength of about tttx of the diluted 
acid to ^j of water are valuable for allaying itching due to any 
cause. If the skin is abraded they must not be used. 

Internal.— Small doses, i to 2 Ttl of the diluted acid are used 
for their sedative effect on the nerves of the stomach, to allay 
vomiting, and to relieve gastric pain, whatever be their cause, and 
often with good effect. A useful way of giving it is in an effer- 
vescent draught. It is a common ingredient of cough mixtures, 
for by its depressing effect on the central nervous system it dimin- 
ishes reflex excitability, and is consequently most serviceable for 
a dry, hacking cough by means of which nothing is expectorated. 

Toxicology. 

With a large dose the symptoms usually begin in a few seconds ; it is 
rare for them to be delayed more than two minutes. The patient is perfectly 
insensible; the eyes are fixed and glistening, the pupils dilated, the limbs 
flaccid, the skin cold and clammy. The respiration is slow, deep and con- 
vulsive; the pulse almost imperceptible. Post Mortem. — There may be an 
odor of prussic acid about the body, which is very livid. The fingers are 
clenched, the jaws firmly closed, and there is froth at the mouth ; the eyes are 
fixed and glistening, and the pupils dilated. The stomach may be a little 
reddened; the blood is very dark. 

Treat7nent. — Wash out the stomach immediately. If emetics are avail- 
able, large doses must be given promptly, for every moment is important. 
Give ether or brandy and -^ gr. of atropine subcutaneously. Use inhalations 
of ammonia and artificial respirations. 



Part II.— ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Section I.— PHARMACOPCEIAL SUBSTANCES DERIVED FROM 
THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM. 

The drugs comprehended in this section may be arranged in many 
ways ; but there are objections to each. Inasmuch as the medical student has 
to be well acquainted with the actions of these drugs in health and disease, 
those which act similarly will be grouped together. 

GROUP I. 

Drugs acting chiefly on the Nervous System. 

These may be classified as follows : 
Class I. — Acting on the cerebrum. 

A. Cerebral depressants or soporifics : 

Opium. Hop. Lettuce. 

B. Cerebral excitants : 

{ Belladonna. -\ Also act on nerve endings 
t\ y • t Stramonium. V in glands and involuntary 
I Hyoscyamus. J muscle. 
[ Cannabis Indica. 
Caffeine. 

Class II. — Acting on the spinal cord. 

A. Exciting the cells of the anterior cornua. Strychnine. 

B. Depressing the cells of the anterior cornua. Calabar bean, 
Gelsemium. 

Class III. — Acting on the nerves. 

A. Depressing the motor nerves. Conium, Nicotine. 

B. Depressing the sensory nerves. Cocaine. 

c. Stimulating the secretory nerves. Jaborandi. 

OPIUM. 

Opium.-— The juice obtained by incision into the unripe capsules of 
Papaver somniferum, the white poppy (Nat. Ord. Papaveracece)^ and inspis- 
sated by spontaneous evaporation. Imported from Asia Minor. Any ordi- 
nary variety may be used to obtain the alkaloids; but the preparations of 

261 



262 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

opium must be of such a strength that in its normal moist condition it shall 
yield not less than 9 per cent, of morphine. 

Characters. — Asia Minor opium. (Synonyms. — Smyrna, Turkey and 
Levant opium.) Rounded, irregular or flattened masses, commonly from 8 
oz. to 2 lbs. in weight, usually covered with portions of poppy leaves, and 
scattered over with reddish-brown chaffy fruits of a species of Rumex. When 
fresh, it is plastic, moist, coarsely granular, reddish or chestnut-brown, but 
becoming harder by keeping, and darkening to blackish brown. Odor strong, 
peculiar, narcotic. Taste nauseously bitter. A fluid preparation reddens 
litmus paper, owing to the presence of meconic acid. 

Varieties. — The above is the only official opium of B. P. ; but the following 
are met with in commerce, and may be used to prepare the alkaloids : (a) Con- 
stantinople opium, small lenticular masses, j£ to ^ lb. in weight, and en- 
closed in a poppy leaf, but without the Rumex seeds. Sometimes the terms 
Turkey and Levant opium include this, (b) Egyptian opium. Flat, more or 
less circular cakes, two or three inches in diameter, reddish hue internally, 
covered with a leaf externally. Persian, Indian, English, French and Ger- 
man opiums are rarely met with in England. 

Composition. — (1) Alkaloids. — At least eighteen in number. Most are 
combined with meconic acid, some with sulphuric acid, and some are free. 
Some morphine salts and codeine are officinal. These two alkaloids and nar- 
ceine and thebaine are important. The following are the alkaloids existing in 
opium : 

Morphine (up to 12 per cent.). Cryptopine. 

Codeine (up to 0.6 per cent.). Hydroctarnine. 

Thebaine (up to 0.3 per cent.). Laudanine. 

Narcotine. Laudanosine. 

Narceine. Meconidine. 

Papaverine. Rhceadine. 

Pseudo-morphine. Codamine. 

Protopine. Gnoscopine. 

Oxynarcotine. Lanthoptine. 

(2) Neutral bodies. — Two in number : 

Meconin. Meconiasin. 

(3) Organic acids. — Two in number. Meconic acid is official in B. P. 

Meconic acid. Thebolactic acid. 

(4) Water, 16 per cent. 

(5) Mucilage, resin, albumen, glucose, fats, essential oil, caoutchouc, odor- 
ous substances, and salts of ammonium, calcium and magnesium. 

. Impurities. — Water, stones, fruits, leaves, starch, etc. 

Incompatibles. — Perchloride of iron gives a deep red color (due to 



OPIUM. 263 

meconic acid). Salts of zinc, copper and arsenic, nitrate of silver, acetate 
and subacetate of lead, give precipitates of meconates, sulphates and coloring 
matters. All tannin-containing preparations precipitate tannate of codeine. 
Fixed alkalies, their carbonates and ammonia precipitate morphine and nar- 
cotine. The small amount of glucose in opium may cause it to explode when 
made into a pill with nitrate of silver. 
Dose, j( to 2 gr. 

1. OPIUM DENARCOTISATUM. 

Source. — Powdered opium (containing 14 per cent, of morphine), 100 
parts is macerated with 500 parts of stronger ether, the clear solution poured 
off, and macerated twice with 250 parts of the ether. The residue is dried 
and mixed with sugar of milk by trituration to weigh 100 parts. Strength. — 
It should assay 14 per cent, of morphine. 

Dose, ]i to 2 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Opii Pulvis. — Opium dried at a temperature not exceeding 
185 F., and reduced to a moderately fine powder. Powdered opium, 
for pharmaceutical or medicinal uses, should contain not less than 12, 
nor more than 16 per cent, of morphine, when assayed by the process 
given under opium. 

Dose, ^ to 2 gr. 

2. Extractum Opii. — Opium, 100; distilled water, 750; glycerine, 
a sufficient quantity ; by maceration, filtration and evaporation. 

Dose, y% to 1 gr. 

3. Emplastrum Opii. — Extract of opium, 6; Burgundy pitch, 
18 ; lead plaster, 76 ; water, 8. 

4. Trochischi Glycyrrhizae et Opii. — Extract of glycyrrhiza, 
200; extract of opium, 5 ; acacia, 200; sugar, 300; oil of anise, 3 grs. 
To make 100 troches. 

Dose, 1 to 4. 

5. Vinum Opii. — Powdered opium, 10 ; cinnamon bark, 1 ; 
cloves, 1 ; stronger white wine to 100 ; by maceration and filtration. 

Dose, 3 to 20 m. 

6. Pilulae Opii. — Powdered opium, 100 ; soap, 25 grs. To make 
100 pills. 

Dose, 1 to 2. 

7. Pulvis Ipecacuanhas et Opii. Synonym. — Dover's powder. 
Powdered opium, 10; ipecacuanha, 10; sugar of milk, 80. 

Dose, 3 to 15 gr. 



264 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

8. Acetum Opii. Synonym. — Black Drop. Powdered opium, 
10 ; nutmeg, 3; sugar, 20. Diluted acetic acid to 100; by maceration 
and percolation. 

Dose, 3 to 20 m. 

9. Tinctura Opii. Synony??i. — Laudanum. Powdered opium, 
IO; alcohol, 4; water, 4; diluted alcohol to 100; by maceration and 
percolation. 

Dose, 3 to 20 m. 

10. Tinctura Opii Camphorata. Synonym. — Paregoric. Pow- 
dered opium, 4; benzoic acid, 4; camphor, 4; oil of anise, 4; 
glycerine, 40; diluted alcohol to 1000; by maceration and percolation. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

11. Tinctura Opii Deodorata. — Powdered opium, 10; ether, 20; 
alcohol, 20; water to 100. By maceration, expression and evaporation. 

Dose, 3 to 20 m. 

12. Tinctura Ipecacuanhae et Opii. — Deodorized tincture of 
opium, 100; fluid extract of ipecac, 10; diluted alcohol to 100. By 
evaporation and filtration. 

Dose, 3 to 15 m. 

It will be noticed that from extract of opium there are prepared Emplas- 
trum Opii, Trochisci Glycyrrhiza et Opii, and from the deodorized tincture is 
prepared, Tincturae Ipecacuanhae et Opii. 

The following list, in which the doses are arranged, may assist the stu- 
dent : 

Name. 

— Ext. Opii. 

— Pulvis Opii. 

— Opium Denarcotizatum. 

— Pulv. Ipecac, et Opii. 

— Tinct. Ipecac et Opii. 

— Vinum Opii. 

— Tinct. Opii. 

— Tinct. Opii Deodorata. 

— Acetum Opii. J 

— Tinct. Opii Camphorata. I — 4 fl. dr. 

— Pilulae Opii. I to 2. 
— Trochisci Glycyrrhizae et Opii. 1 to 4. 

— Emplast. Opii. Externally. 





Dose. 


%• 


-1 gr. 


x- 


-2gr. 


3- 
3- 


-15 gr. 

-15 m- 



3— 20IH 



OPIUM. 265 

MORPHINA.— Morphine. Symbol, C 17 H 19 N0 3 H 2 0. 

An alkaloid prepared from opium. Colorless or white, shining prismatic 
crystals, having a bitter taste and an alkaline reaction. Very slightly soluble 
in water. 

Dose, }£ to X S r - 

MORPHINE HYDROCHLORAS.- Hydrochlorate of Morphine. 
Symbol, C 17 H 19 N0 3 ,HC1,3H 2 0. 

Source. — (1st.) Take a cold concentrated watery solution of opium, 
precipitate the meconic acid and resins with chloride of calcium. The solu- 
tion contains hydrochlorate of morphine. (2nd.) Evaporate the solution till 
it is solid, press to remove coloring matter, exhaust with boiling water, filter, 
and again evaporate and press ; repeat this till the solution is nearly colorless. 
(3rd.) Complete the decolorization by digesting with charcoal. (4th.) Pre- 
cipitate the morphine with ammonia and wash. (5th.) Dissolve in hydro- 
chloric acid and crystallize out. 

Characters. — White, feathery, flexible, acicular crystals, with a silky 
lustre. Solubility. — 1 in 24 of water, 1 in 63 of alcohol, I in 8 of glycerine. 

Incompatibles. — Salts of lead, iron, copper, mercury and zinc ; alkaline 
carbonates; lime water; Liquor Potassii Arsenitis; all substances containing 
tannin. 

Dose, j4 to X g r - 

MORPHINE ACETAS.— Acetate of Morphine. C 17 H 19 N0 3 ,HC 2 
H 3 2 , 3 H 2 0. 

Source. — Morphine is precipitated with ammonia from a solution of the 
hydrochlorate. It is dissolved in acetic acid and water, and the solution is 
evaporated. 

Characters. — A white powder. Solubility. — 1 in 12 of water. Many 
specimens are not so soluble as this. I in 68 of alcohol, I in 5 of glycerine. 

Dose, y s to X g r - 

MORPHINE SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Morphine. (C 17 H 19 N0 3 ) 2 
H 2 S0 4 , 5 H 2 0. 

Source. — Morphine is precipitated from a solution of the hydrochlorate 
by ammonia, and is dissolved in sulphuric acid and water, and the solution is 
evaporated. 

Characters. — Colorless, feathery, silky needles. Solubility. — 1 in 24 of 
cold water, freely in hot water, sparingly in alcohol. 

Dose, y 8 to X gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Pulvis Morphinae Compositus. — Synonym. — Tully's Pow- 
der. Sulphate of morphine, I; camphor, 20; glycyrrhiza, 20; preci- 

23 



266 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

cipitated carbonate of calcium, 20 ; alcohol, a sufficient quantity. By 
trituration. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

2. Trochischi Morphinae et Ipecacuanhae. — Sulphate of Mor- 
phine, 5; ipecac, 16; sugar, 2000; oil of gaultheria, 2 grains; mucilage 
of tragacanth, a sufficient quantity to make 200 troches. Strength. — 
To grai 11 °f morphine in each. 

Action. 

The action and uses of opium are due almost entirely to its 
morphine, and therefore they may be studied together. 

External. — Opium probably has no action when applied to 
the unbroken skin, but it has been said to be slightly anodyne. 
It can be absorbed from and relieve the pain of raw surfaces. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Opium diminishes all the 
secretions of the body except the sweat. The mouth consequently 
becomes dry, and the patient feels thirsty, but after a small dose 
not markedly so. This effect is partly due to the direct action of 
the opium on the mouth, but to a less extent to its influence exert- 
ed after it has been absorbed. In the stomach and intestine, by 
the same double action, the secretion of the gastric and intestinal 
juices is diminished. The drug also paralyzes the peristaltic move- 
ments of the stomach and intestines. This is due to stimulation 
of the center of the nerves (splanchnics) which inhibit these move- 
ments. The result of the diminution of secretion and peristalsis, 
is that opium appeases hunger, often causes indigestion, almost 
always gives rise to constipation, and if vomiting or diarrhoea 
is present it will prevent it. These actions are also in part due to 
its general sedative influence on the nervous system. If pain 
exists in the abdomen or elsewhere opium is a powerful anodyne. 
Most of it is absorbed, but rather slowly. 

Blood. — Morphine for the most part circulates in the blood as 
such, and is excreted by the kidneys, but a small part of it is 
destroyed in the liver. The fate of the other alkaloids is not 
known, nor are we aware of any direct action of any of the 
constituents of opium on the blood itself. 



OPIUM. 267 

Circulation. — In an ordinary healthy man small doses of 
opium do not affect the heart or vessels. Large doses first increase 
and then diminish the action of the heart, which finally stops in 
diastole. These effects can be produced by applying the drug to the 
organ, it therefore directly affects either the cardiac muscle or the 
nerves in it. But this local action is augmented by the less im- 
portant influence of opium on the vagal center ; this is at first 
stimulated, and about the time at which the heart itself is depressed, 
so that both these actions make the pulse slow. Just before 
death the vagus is depressed, but the heart itself is by that time 
so feeble that the pulse is not quickened. Patients rarely die from 
the effect of opium on the heart and its nervous apparatus, this 
being much less important than the influence on respiration. 

The vaso-motor system is not affected till towards the end of 
the symptoms due to toxic doses ; then the vessels dilate from the 
action of the drug on the vaso-motor centers in the medulla and 
cord. 

Respiration. — Opium is a direct poison to the respiratory 
center. Breathing therefore becomes difficult, and death takes 
place from asphyxia. 

Nervous system. — Brain. — The higher faculties are at first 
excited even by small doses. In a few persons there is no inco- 
ordination in this excitement. The intellectual power and men- 
tal vigor are increased, and therefore the drug is taken by some 
people to enable them to do their mental work. Usually, how- 
ever, the excitation does not affect the mind evenly ; generally the 
imagination is powerfully and pleasantly excited, much more so 
than the faculties of reason and judgment, which are a little 
dulled. The expression on the face is one of happiness and 
comfort, and this corresponds with the condition of the mind, 
which is in a state of peace, calm and happiness. This is soon 
succeeded by sleep, which is accompanied by pleasant dreams, 
generally of an impossible nature. With some persons, however, 
the sleep is quite dreamless. This, which is the beginning of the 
depression of the highest centers, is soon followed by depression 
of the others, the higher being influenced before the lower, so 



268 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

that soon the sleeper does not respond to any sound, light, or 
cutaneous stimulation, nor does he feel pain. It is this last 
fact that makes the drug so invaluable. The dose requisite to 
annul pain depends, of course, upon the severity of it. If a large 
amount is given, often there is no primary excitement, and then 
the first symptom that opium has been taken is drowsiness. On 
waking from sleep induced by opium some persons feel quite well, 
but usually there is a little languor, headache, and nausea. Opium 
eaters take it for its stimulant effect. It is given medicinally as 
an hypnotic and anodyne. The pupil is contracted; this is due 
to the effect of the drug on the pupillary center in the floor of the 
aqueduct of Sylvius. In man, just as the stimulation of the in- 
tellectual centers is brief, so is that of the cerebral motor centers, 
— in fact, it is often difficult to detect any evidence of it. Their 
subsequent depression is never so marked as that of the intellec- 
tual faculties ; for although there is languor and muscular weak- 
ness, and the patient always lies down, yet he can be walked 
about if he is supported. Vomiting is occasionally caused by 
transient irritation of the vomiting center, but soon it is de- 
pressed, and therefore emetics do not act well in cases of opium 
poisoning. 

The motor cells of the spinal cord are at first slightly stimu- 
lated, and consequently reflex excitability is exaggerated; but 
they are soon depressed, and it is difficult to obtain reflex 
movements. 

The excitability of motor and sensory nerves is, perhaps, a 
little increased at first, but in the later stages of opium poisoning 
they are depressed, the sensory before the motor. The muscles 
remain irritable to the last. 

Opium, in its action on the nervous system, illustrates the 
common fact that functions at first stimulated by a drug are 
usually subsequently paralyzed by it ; and it affords an excellent 
example of the law of dissolution, for higher functions, such as 
the intellectual and imaginative, are first affected ; motion is then 
disordered ; next the pupillary center, and then the medullary 
centers for respiration and cardiac action are implicated. The 



OPIUM. 269 

spinal cord is influenced to a less degree, the nerves very slightly, 
and the muscles riot at all. 

In man the peculiarities of the action of morphine are its pre- 
dominating influence on the higher mental functions, and the 
slight affection of the motor and the vaso-motor centers, the 
cord, the nerves, and the muscles. In frogs, morphine produces 
violent convulsions, because its predominating action is to stimu- 
late the spinal cord. Birds are peculiarly insusceptible to mor- 
phine. Mammals are for the most part affected in the same 
way as man, sleep and death from asphyxia being the leading 
symptoms ; but in many of the lower mammals spinal symptoms 
are very marked. 

Kidneys. — Sometimes opium slightly increases, sometimes it 
slightly decreases the urinary flow. : 

Skin. — Opium is a mild diaphoretic. 

Metabolism. — Opium depresses the biliary function of the 
liver, for the person taking it secretes less bile. If he has glyco- 
suria, the amount of sugar he passes in the urine is diminished. 
General metabolism appears to be decreased also, for it is stated, 
that the amounts of uric acid and carbonic acid excreted are 
lessened, but some experimenters contradict this statement. 

Peculiarities. — There are few drugs which have such different 
effects upon different people. The above description states the 
manner in which most human beings are affected, but in some 
the stage of excitation is very evident, so that they become deli- 
rious and cannot sleep. In others, vomiting and indigestion are 
very marked. Some of these peculiarities are due, no doubt, to 
the varying composition of opium. Children are easily poisoned 
by it, and therefore only small doses should be administered to 
them ; women are more readily affected than men. Persons who 
take it habitually soon tolerate enormous quantities. It may pro- 
duce an erythematous eruption on the skin. 

Differences in action between opium and morphine. — (1) Mor- 
phine, being more readily absorbed, acts more quickly. It is 
especially suitable for. subcutaneous injection \ given in this way it 
acts very rapidly. (2) Opium is more liable to upset the diges- 



270 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

tion and to cause constipation, but this last fact often makes it 
the more valuable in many abdominal diseases. (3) Opium is 
the better diaphoretic. (4) Morphine is more certain in its action 
as an anodyne and soporific ; possibly this is because of the other 
powerful alkaloids in opium. (5) Opium is stated to act more 
powerfully in reducing the amount of sugar present in the urine 
in glycosuria. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Hot fomentations or poultices sprinkled with 
laudanum are often applied to painful parts, but probably it is 
the heat and not the opium which relieves the pain. Linimentum 
Opii (B. P., tincture of opium and soap liniment; equal parts), 
rubbed into the skin diminishes the pain of chronic rheumatism 
and myalgia ; probably in this case the friction is more effica- 
cious than the opium. Locally applied to sores and ulcers, it 
may sooth the pain due to them. The ointment of galls and 
opium (B. P., powdered opium, 30 gr. to ounce of gall oint- 
ment) will often relieve the pain of piles and anal fissures, es- 
pecially if a mild laxative is given by the mouth. 

Internal.— Stomach. — Morphine is of great service for the 
pain of gastric ulcer, cancer, or even for simple painful dys- 
pepsia. A solution of morphine, (1 gr. to ounce of water, dose, 
1 fl. dr.) is preferable to opium, as that may aggravate the indi 
gestion. Morphine is frequently combined with preparations of 
bismuth, and taken immediately before or after meals. Many 
forms of vomiting are relieved by morphine, because it decreases 
pain, peristalsis, and excessive secretion. 

Intestines. — Opium is invaluable for stopping many varieties 
of diarrhoea. If they will yield to any treatment, opium is most 
likely to be successful. Intestinal colic, being due to irregular ex- 
cessive perstaltic action, is generally relieved by opium, — and, 
indeed, so is abdominal pain of all sorts. In all inflammatory 
conditions of the peritoneum full doses of opium must be given, 
the object being so to paralyze the intestinal movements as to 
prevent the peritoneal surfaces rubbing against each other. It is 
the great mainstay in perityphlitis, acute peritonitis, and after 



OPIUM. 271 

operations or wounds in the abdomen. Opium is far preferable 
to morphine for abdominal cases; if they are severe it must be 
boldly pushed, the patient being kept just drowsy with slightly 
contracted pupils, and it often does not matter if the bowels are 
not open for a month. The more recent practice, however, is 
to keep the bowels slightly open by the use of salines. 

Heart — Much skill is required to give opium properly in 
heart disease. The hypodermic injection of morphine is, on the 
whole, to be preferred to opium. The great indication for it is 
when cardiac pain and distress keep the patient awake. Often it 
acts like a charm, a quiet refreshing sleep being the result of a 
single injection. No doubt it is a cardiac depressant, but we 
have to set against this the exhaustion of pain and insomnia. 
Still, if the patient is very ill, these two factors must be carefully 
balanced. It likewise often relieves the pain of aneurism and 
intra-thoracic growths. Its depressant effect may be to some 
extent counterbalanced by combining belladonna with it. 

Vessels. — Opium is an excellent haemostatic. It is probably 
efficient after absorption, but its great value is in intestinal haem- 
orrhage, when it acts partly by stopping peristaltic movements. 
An excellent form in which to give it is the Pilula Plumbi cum 
Opio, (B. P., powdered opium and confection of roses, 1 part each, 
acetate of lead, 6 parts; dose, 3 to 5 grs.) 

Respiration. — It will be remembered that opium depresses 
the respiratory center ; therefore it, by diminishing the activity 
of the center for the reflex act of coughing, will often alleviate 
this distressing symptom, but it is only justifiable to give it when 
the irritation which reflexly sets up a cough is irremovable, as in 
intra-thoracic growth or aneurism, or when there is little or no 
lividity and yet the cough is violent, as is often the case in pleu- 
risy. The liability to lividity and asphyxia in many diseases at- 
tended with cough must never be forgotten. Thus opium is quite 
inadmissible in the last stages of bronchitis and pneumonia, and, 
as a rule, in even the earlier stages of these diseases other means 
of relieving the cough should be tried first; and if opium is 
given, it must be administered with great caution and judgment. 



272 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

A "linctus opiatus," a favorite remedy, is often given at night 
when a cough keeps the patient awake. It may consist of tinc- 
ture of opium, 2 Ttl; dilute sulphuric acid, 2 HI; treacle, 30 Tit; 
water to 3J- The object of the treacle is to sooth the pharynx 
locally. Opium must also be given cautiously for asthma, as there 
is in this disease a great liability to the growth of a permanent 
opium habit. 

Nervous system. — Brain.— -It is in its action on this organ 
that the marvellous value of opium is seen, its great function be- 
ing to relieve pain and to produce sleep when that is prevented 
by pain. For these purposes it is best given hypodermically as 
morphine, for that acts more quickly, more certainly, and is less 
liable to produce indigestion and excitement than opium. It 
would be a long list to give all the diseases the pain of which 
can be relieved by morphine; cancer and fractures are typical 
instances Morphine is very valuable for the insomnia of acute 
diseases; but it should never be prescribed for habitual sleepless- 
ness, for fear the patient should contract the habit of opium tak- 
ing — unless the disease causing the insomnia is incurable, when 
the use of opium is quite justifiable. It should not be given in 
gout, for that is often accompanied by granular kidneys; nor for 
hysteria, for often it does not relieve hysterical pains, and an 
opium habit may be formed. It is especially useful in renal and 
biliary colic, and for the after-pains of a confinement. In these 
cases it relieves the pain partly from its power as an anodyne, 
and also because by its paralyzing effect on unstriped muscle it 
relaxes the muscular contraction. This property also makes it 
valuable in some cases of spasmodic stricture of the urethra. It 
may be given as a sedative in delirium tremens and some forms 
of mania, but often such large doses are required that its use is 
not justifiable. Patients suffering great pain can take enormous 
doses without any symptoms of poisoning. 

Spinal cord. — It has been used for pains of locomotor ataxia 
and occasionally in convulsive diseases, but without much success. 

Kidneys. — It should always be remembered that morphine is 
excreted with difficulty, if the kidneys are diseased. There are 



OPIUM. 273 

several cases recorded in which persons suffering from Bright's 
disease have been killed by quite small doses of opium. 

Skin. — Combined with ipecacuanha as Dover's powder, opium 
is commonly given as a mild diaphoretic, in cases of slight inflam- 
matory disorder, such as a common cold. 

Metabolism. — Opium is administered to persons suffering from 
diabetes, and the amount of sugar in the urine certainly dimin- 
ishes and the patient's general health improves, but, however, 
codeine is preferable. Opium can, in the opinion of many, con- 
trol all varieties of inflammation, therefore it is given for a cold 
in the head, for cystitis, pleurisy, etc. Occasionally persons 
taking opium suffer from retention of urine. We have indicated 
the occasions on which opium and morphine are respectively 
preferable. 

Toxicology. 

Acute poisoning. — There may be slight preliminary excitability ; but soon 
drowsiness sets in. This is followed by incapacity for exertion, sleep, and 
finally deep coma. The pupils are minutely contracted. At first the patient 
can be roused ; but soon no stimulation will do this. Reflex action is abol- 
ished. The skin is cold, the face and lips are livid, and towards the end 
bathed in sweat. The pulse is weak and slow. The respiration becomes 
slower and more irregular; at last it is stertorous, and the patient dies from 
asphyxia. 

Diagnosis of poisoning by opium. — 1. From alcoholic poisoning. — Often 
very difficult, especially if, as commonly happens, the man poisoned with 
opium has taken alcohol or had it given him. The pupils are more contracted 
in opium poisoning. The patient is more easily roused in alcohol poisoning. 
Examine the urine for morphine and alcohol. Get a careful history. 2. 
From cerebral hemorrhage. — If this is in the pons Varolii, the pupils may be 
very contracted and the diagnosis difficult, but look carefully for local para- 
lyses. Usually cerebral hemorrhage takes place into the internal capsule, and 
then the face and the limbs on one side are paralyzed. If the haemorrhage is 
a small one, and especially if it is in the pons, the temperature may be raised; 
if it is a very large one, the temperature falls for the first few hours, but may 
rise subsequently. If the pupils are unequal, the case is one of cerebral haem- 
orrhage. 3. From carbolic acid poisoning ■, in which there may be coma and 
contracted pupils. The acid produces white patches in the mouth, and the 
odor is characteristic. 4. From chlorofo?'m and ether poisoning, by the odor 
of the breath and of the vomited matters. 5. From urcemia, by the signs of 

24 



274 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Bright' s disease, especially albuminuria. 6. From diabetic coma, by the smell 
of the breath and the glycosuria. 7. From the comatose stage of an epileptic 
jit, by the history, the dilatation of the pupils, and the fact that the lividity 
does not deepen. 8. From the same stage of a fit in general paralysis of the 
insane and other nervous diseases, by the same symptoms. 

Post mortem. — The appearances after death from opium poisoning are 
those always found after fatal asphyxia. 

Treatment. — Wash out the stomach. Give prompt emetics (p. 76), as 
apomorphine subcutaneously. Always rouse the patient by walking him about, 
flapping him with a towel, pinching him, applying the faradic current, and 
putting ammonia to the nose ; a pint of strong coffee should be injected into 
the tectum, -^ gr. sulphate of atropine given subcutaneously, or 30 TTL °f 
tincture of belladonna by the mouth repeated every quarter of an hour. If 
the breathing is very difficult, artificial respiration should be employed. Ni- 
trite of amyl inhalations may be used. The treatment must be kept up for 
several hours if necessary. 

Antagonism. 

Atropine. — Atropine (alkaloid of belladonna) is a valuable antidote to 
morphine, because it powerfully stimulates the respiratory center. It also 
stimulates the cerebral convolutions and intestinal peristalsis, both depressed 
by morphine. It appears to be antagonistic to opium in other particulars, but 
is not really so. Thus, although it prevents perspiration and dilates the pupil, 
these effects are due to action on the peripheral nerve terminations, while 
morphine produces contrary results by acting on the central nervous system. 
Still it has been found that some of the undesirable effects that may follow 
the subcutaneous injection of morphine, such as indigestion, constipation and 
cardiac depression, may be avoided if T ^ to T i^ gr. of sulphate of atropine is 
injected at the same time. 

CODEIN A.— Codeine. C 18 H 21 N0 3 ,H 2 0. 

Source.— Obtained by evaporating the ammoniacal liquids, remaining 
after the precipitation of morphine by ammonia in the preparation of the 
hydro chlorate, treating the residue with water, precipitation with caustic pot- 
ash, and purifying by dissolving in ether and letting the codeine crystallize out. 

Characters. — Nearly colorless, more or less translucent, rhombic 
prisms. Solubility. — 1 in 80 of cold water, I in 17 of boiling water, I in 2 
of alcohol, I in 2 of chloroform. 

Dose, j^ to 2 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
It may produce tremors because it excites the cord more, and 
depresses the higher faculties less, than morphine. It is used to 



AP0M0RPHTNE. 275 

diminish the glycosuria in diabetes, and as an analgesic. It is 
usually given as a pill. 

APOMORPHINiE HYDROCHLORAS.— Hydro chlorate of Apo- 
morphine. C 17 H 17 N0 2 ,HQ. 

Source — It is the hydrochlorate of an alkaloid obtained by heating mor- 
phine or codeine in sealed tubes with hydrochloric acid. The morphine loses 
one molecule of water, thus: C 17 H 19 N0 3 =C 17 H 17 N0 2 -f-H 2 0. 

Characters.— Small, grayish-white, shining needles, turning green on 
exposure to light and air; faintly acid. Solubility. — 1 in 6.8 of water, 1 in 50 
of alcohol. 

Dose, 23- to i S T - hypodermically, Jj to T L gr. by the mouth. 

Action. 

External.. — None. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Apomorphine is the 
most powerful emetic we possess. It does not act locally on the 
stomach, but solely on the vomiting center in the medulla. It 
is therefore, an indirect emetic. This is shown by the fact that 
when the drug is injected subcutaneously it produces violent 
vomiting if the vessels are so tied that none can reach the stom- 
ach, but not if they are so tied that it cannot reach the medulla. 

Circulation. — Therapeutic doses have no effect • beyond the 
depressing action which may be attributed to the vomiting. 
Large doses cause a rise in the rate of the pulse, probably from 
stimulation of the accelerator nerves, and with fatal doses the 
pulse-rate falls, because the drug directly paralyzes the cardiac 
muscle. 

Respiration. — This is at first stimulated by the act of vomit- 
ing. The effect of poisonous doses is doubtful ; probably they 
depress respiration. The physiological experiments show that it 
produces a watery discharge from the blood vessels of the respira- 
tory mucous membrane, which is found to be paler after the admin- 
istration of this remedy, and as well less cedematous. This effect 
is produced within a half hour after injection, and it is not in any 
respect the first stage of emesis. 

Nervous system. — The first result of toxic doses is to cause 
delirium. Finally there is paralysis of the motor nerves, and 
consequently of the muscles. 



276 organic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

Vomiting action. — The advantages of apomorphine over the 
other emetics are that it is certain, prompt, and powerful; it can 
be given when emetics introduced directly into the stomach 
would not act, and it does not irritate the stomach. It is largely 
used in cases of poisoning. It is usually given hypodermically, 
1 gr. being dissolved in 50 TTL of camphor water. This must 
be prepared extemporanously, as it will not keep. 

Expectorant action. — It is, when given by the mouth, a valu- 
able expectorant for bronchitis. In an adult ^ gr. will produce 
a watery expectoration within the time stated and this effect will last 
from two to three hours. It is particularly useful in the early stages 
of acute bronchitis, in chronic dry bronchitis, in chronic catar- 
rhal pneumonia, and in old tubercular patients who are harassed 
by an unproductive cough. 

HUMULUS. 

HOPS. — The strobiles of Humulus Lupulus (Nat. Ord. Urticacece). 
North America and Europe. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Lupulin, a liquid alka- 
loid. (2) Lupulinic acid, 11 per cent., a bitter crystalline principle. (3) Val- 
erol, I per cent., an aromatic volatile oil giving the odor. (4) Resin, 9 to 1 8 
per cent. (5) Tannin, 4 to 5 per cent. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids, metallic salts. 

Preparations. 

Tinctura Humuli. — Hops, 20; by maceration and percolation 
to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Hops are tonic and slightly narcotic, as well as probably 
diuretic. They have been used in dyspepsia, nervous tremors, 
wakefulness and in the delirium of drunkards. 

LUPULINUM. — Lupulin. A glandular powder, obtained from the 
dried strobiles of Humulus Lupulus. 

Characters. — A granular, bright, brownish-yellow powder, which when 
magnified is seen to consist of minute, globular, reticulated, translucent, shining 
glands. Odor and taste like hops. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 



HOPS. 277 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Lupulini Fluidum. — Lupulin, 100; by maceration 
and percolation with alcohol to 100 parts. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

2. Oleoresina Lupulini. — Lupulin, 100. By percolation with 
stronger ether and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Action. 

The volatile oil in hops is stomachic and carminative like 
other volatile oils. To a slight extent it reflexly excites the cir- 
culation. The bitter principle aids the stomachic influence. 
Hops are decidedly soporific. Probably it is the volatile oil 
that produces this effect. 

Therapeutics. 

The pharmacopoeial preparations of hop are not much used, 
but good beer, because of the hops contained in it, may with 
some persons aid digestion, and for this purpose is often given 
with meals to those whose digestion is feeble after a long illness, 
or from any other cause. The alcohol in the beer increases this 
effect. Many people find the soporific influence of beer very 
well marked. 

LACTUCARIUM. 

LETTUCE.— The flowering herb of Lactuca virosa (Nat. Ord. Composi- 
te}. Britain. It is too well known to need description. 

Composition. — The chief constituents of lactucarium, or the milky juice 
exuding from the lettuce, are — (1) Hyoscyamine, 0.02 per cent, {see Hyoscya- 
mus). (2) Lactucone, 42 per cent., a crystalline principle. (3) Lactucine, 
resembling mannite. (4) Lactucic acid. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Lactucarii Fluidum. — By maceration with ether, 
with alcohol and water, evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

2. Syrupus Lactucarii. — Fluid Extract of Lactucarium, 5 ; 
Syrup, 95. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 



278 « ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Lettuce has been credited with mild hypnotic powers. 
Large doses of the extract may cause mental derangement, and 
will dilate the pupil. All these actions are due to the hyoscya- 
mine contained in the milky juice and in the extract. Different 
varieties of lettuce contain different proportions of hyoscyamine. 
It is more abundant in young plants than old ones. 

BELLADONNA. 

BELLADONNA FOLIA.— Belladonna Leaves. The fresh leaves, 
with the branches to which they are attached, of Atropa Belladonna (Nat. 
Ord. Solanacece). Synonym. — Deadly nightshade. Also the leaves separated 
from the branches, gathered from wild or cultivated plants when the fruit has 
begun to form, and carefully dried. Britain. 

Characters. — Leaves alternate below, in pairs of unequal size above, all 
shortly stalked, from 3 to 6 in. long, broadly ovate, acute, entire, smooth. The ex- 
pressed juice, or an infusion dropped into the eye, dilates the pupil. Resembling 
belladonna leaves. — Stramonium leaves, more wrinkled; hyoscyamus leaves, 
hairy. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Atropine (q. v.), .06 to .3 
per cent. (2) Belladonni?ie, another alkaloid, chemically closely allied to and 
having a very similar action to atropine. Probably it, hyoscyamine (q. v.), 
and daturine (q. v.), are all identical, and exist as malates in the plant. 
Recently it has been stated that atropine does not exist in belladonna in the na- 
tural state, but that it is a conversion product of hyoscyamine, which is the na- 
tural alkaloid of belladonna. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Belladonnae Alcoholicum. — By percolation and 
evaporation with alcohol, glycerine is added. 

Dose, y s to y 2 gr. 

2. Tinctura Belladonnae. — Belladonna leaves, 15; diluted alco- 
hol to 100. By maceration and percolation. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

3. Unguentum Belladonnae. — Alcoholic extract of belladonna, 
10; diluted alcohol, 6; benzoinated lard, 84. 

Belladonnae Radix.- — Belladonna Root. The root of Atropa Belladonna, 
from plants growing wild or cultivated in Britain and carefully dried, 
or imported in a dried state from Germany. 



BELLADONNA. 279 

-iaracters. — Rough, irregular branched pieces I to 2 fee: long, j£ to 2 
in. thick, upper end marked by hollow bases of stems. Integument dirt}' gray 
or brownish, easily scraped by the nail; exposed surface white. Fracture short. 
Broken surface shows thin yellowish or pale brown cortex, separated by a dark 
line from a large central brownish portion, which is marked throughout by scat- 
tered dark dots without evident rays. Resembling belladonna root. — Pyrethrum 
root, which is unbranched, and has a burning taste and a radiate fractured sur- 
face. Scammony root is larger. 

Composition. — As of the leaves. Usually contains 0.4 to 0.5 per cent ::" 

alkaloids, chiefly atropine. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Belladonnae Fluidum. — Belladonna root By 
percolation with alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose. 1 to 3 m. 

2. Linimentum Belladonnae. — Fluid extract of belladonna. 15 ; 
camphor. 5 

3. Abstractum Belladonnae. — -Belladonna root, 200; sugar of 
milk and alcohol. By maceration anl evaporation, to 1 00. 

Dose. r 4 ' to 1 gr. 

4. Emplastrum Belladonnae. — Belladonna root, 100; 
plaster, alcohol a sufficient quantity to 1 00. 

ATROPIN A. —Atropine. {Synonym. — Atropiaj C l: H :i X 0,. An 
alkaloid existing in the leaves and root of the belladonna plant as malare of 
atropine. 

Source. — The B. P. directs it to be made from the root thus: — 
(i) Make a tincture of the root by maceration and percolation with spirit (2) 
Add slaked lime : this splits up the malate of atropine, malate of lime being 
precipitated. (3) Filter, and add sulphuric acid to precipitate the excess of 
lime. 14^ Filter, concentrate by distillation, partially evaporate, add carbonate 
of potassium ; after six hours much coloring matter is precipitated. 5 Filter, 
add more carbonate of potassium : this sets tree the atropine. (6) Shake up 
with chloroform, which takes up the atropine in solution. (7) Withdraw the 
chloroform, evaporate, and atropine is left. It is purified by digestion with 
warm alcohol and animal charcoal. 

Characters. — Colorless acicular crystals, isomeric with belladonnine. 
Solubility. — 1 in 600 of cold, 1 in 35 of boiling water, 1 in I of chloroform. I 
in 3 of alcohol, I in 60 of ether, t in 52 of glycerine, and I in 1 5 :■: oleic ; 
It can be decomposed into tropin e and tropic acid, and reconstructed by their 
syntt- 

Incqmpatibues. — Caustic alkalies decompose it. 

Dose, rr ^ to ^ gr. 



280 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

ATROPINE SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Atropine. (C 17 H 23 N0 3 ) 2 
H 2 S0 4 . 

Source. — Dissolve atropine in dilute sulphuric acid, and evaporate. 

Characters. — Nearly colorless, crystalline or pulverulent. Solubility, — 
I in 0.4 of water, solution neutral, I in 6.5 of alcohol. 

Dose, T ^ to Jq gr- 

Action. 

The action of belladonna and atropine is the same. 

Bxternal. — Atropine placed by itself upon the unbroken 
skin cannot be absorbed, but rubbed in with substances which 
are absorbed, such as alcohol, glycerine, camphor, etc., applied 
to a broken surface, it paralyzes the terminations of the sensory 
nerves, especially if pain is present. It is thus a local anaes- 
thetic and an anodyne. These are its chief actions, but to a 
much less extent it locally paralyzes the terminations of the motor 
nerves, first contracts and then dilates the vessels, and renders 
the secretions of the skin less active. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — It will be convenient 
to describe the effects of belladonna on all secretions when speak- 
ing of its action on nerves, and we need not mention here its 
influence on the muscular coat of the intestine, for that is second- 
ary to its action on the nervous system. 

Blood. — Atropine is quickly absorbed, but does not affect the 
blood. Its main action is on the nervous system, and that must 
be considered in detail. 

Secretory nerves. — The activity of the peripheral termina- 
tions of all the secretory nerves in the body is, as far as 
we know, depressed. These nerves fall under the following 
headings : 

(a) Mouth. — Even small doses of atropine make the mouth 
dry from lack of saliva and mucus. In health secretion of sub- 
maxillary saliva always follows stimulation of the chorda tympani 
nerve, and, as is well known, this is due to the fact that this 
nerve is the secretory nerve for this gland, and not to any vascu- 
lar dilatation. If atropine be given to an animal, stimulation 
of the chorda no longer causes an increased flow of saliva, how- 



BELLADONNA. 28 1 

ever close to the gland the nerve is excited, the reason being that 
atropine has paralyzed the terminations of the chorda tympani. 
In the same way the terminations of the secretory nerves of the 
other salivary glands and the mucous glands are paralyzed, and 
hence the mouth is dry, because normal impulses cannot reach 
the cells of the glands. 

Stomach, liver, and intestines. — We do not know what influ- 
ence atropine has on the secretions of these organs. 

Sweat glands. — Atropine paralyzes the terminations of the 
nerves in the sudoriparous glands. Thus it causes the skin to 
become dry. 

Kidneys. — The effect of atropine on the amount of urine 
secreted is necessarily uncertain, as the urinary flow depends so 
much on the secretion of sweat. 

Bronchial mucous membrane — The secretion of bronchial 
and tracheal mucus, like that of the mouth, is diminished. 

Mammary gland. — The activity of the peripheral termina- 
tions of the secretory nerves in the cells of the mammary gland 
is inhibited, hence the flow of milk, if any is present, is ar- 
rested, and belladonna is called an antigalactogogue. 

Sensory nerves. — It has already been mentioned that bella- 
donna rubbed into the skin depresses the function of the termi- 
nations of the sensory nerves. It does the same when given by 
the mouth, but its action on sensory nerves — that is to say, its 
anaesthetic and anodyne action — is very inferior to that on the 
secretory nerves, and is not powerful enough for atropine to re- 
lieve pain when given internally. It is only used as a local an- 
odyne. 

Voluntary muscles and their nerves. — Voluntary muscles are 
quite unaffected even by toxic doses of atropine ; towards the end 
of a case of belladonna poisoning the motor nerves are slightly 
paralyzed. 

Involuntary muscles and their nemes. — The splanchnics are 
the inhibitory nerves of the intestinal movements, and if they are 
stimulated the peristaltic movements stop ; impulses are constantly 
descending these nerves to restrain these movements. If atro- 



282 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

pine in small doses is given to animals it is observed that the 
bowels are relaxed, because intestinal peristalsis is much 
increased, and that stimulation of the splanchnics is powerless 
to arrest it ; clearly the drug has paralyzed the terminations of 
the splanchnics in the involuntary muscles of the intestine. 
Some have found that very minute doses stop the peristaltic 
movements, others that large doses have this effect. Whether 
these results are due to stimulation of the terminations of the 
splanchnics is not known, nor is it easy to explain the discrep- 
ancies of the dose. In man it is most likely that moderate doses 
restrain excessive peristaltic action. 

Probably the nerve terminations in the muscles of the blad- 
der, ureters, urethra, vesiculae seminales, uterus and vagina are 
affected in the same way as those in the intestinal muscles, but 
this is not yet decided. 

The eye mid its nerves. — Atropine acts only on the termina- 
tions of the nerves in the involuntary muscles of the eye. If it 
be dropped into the eye or given by the mouth the pupil dilates 
widely, and cannot be made to contract by stimulation of the 
third nerve. That this dilatation is not due to any action on the 
muscular fibres of the iris themselves is shown by the fact that 
the atropinized pupil will contract if the muscle itself be stimula- 
ted. Therefore it must be that the terminations of the third 
nerve in the iris are paralyzed. The ending of this nerve in 
the ciliary muscle is affected in the same way, and consequently 
accommodation is paralyzed. It is certain that this 
mydriasis and defective accommodation is in no part central, as 
is the contraction of the pupil produced by opium. So strong is 
the local action of belladonna, that if atropine be dropped into 
the recently excised eye the pupil will dilate. When the third 
nerve is cut the pupil dilates, and if after this atropine be dropped 
into the eye it dilates still further. Some have concluded, from 
this and other reasons, that atropine also stimulates the termina- 
tions of the sympathetic in the iris ; but the reasoning is incon- 
clusive, and it is not at present proved that atropine can do this. 
The intra-ocular tension is increased by large doses. There is, 



BELLADONNA. 283 

as a result of the paralysis of the ciliary muscle, disturbance of 
vision. Atropine does not act on the pupils of birds. 

The heart .and its nerves. — The main action of atropine is to 
paralyze the terminations of the vagus in the heart, and 
consequently the pulse is rendered more rapid, and cannot 
be slowed by strongly stimulating the vagus. If the rate of the 
heart has been lowered by muscarin, which can be shown to have 
a local stimulating influence on the terminations of the vagus in 
the heart, the application of atropine renders the heart quick 
again, the two drugs being, in their effect on the heart, exactly 
antagonistic. This quickening of the pulse from inhibition of the 
vagal cardiac terminal filaments is the chief action of atropine on 
the heart, but the following minor actions must be noticed. The 
vagus centre and the trunk of the nerve are also depressed, but 
to a much less extent. Before the pulse is quickened it is occa- 
sionally slowed for a short time by atropine ; this is probably 
owing to a brief excitation of the vagus centre, the vagus nerve, 
and its peripheral cardiac terminations. Some authorities believe 
that part ol the quickening of the pulse is due to a slight stimula- 
tion of the cardiac accelerator nerves, just as we have seen that 
some consider that the sympathetic fibres in the iris are excited ; 
but if the accelerator nerves are stimulated, this stimulation is 
quite subsidiary to the important paralysis of the vaginal termi- 
nations. Although the pulse is quickened by belladonna, its 
force is not diminished. Toxic doses abolish the function 
of the cardiac muscle, and the heart stops in diastole. 

Vaso-motor system and its nerves. — After a considerable dose 
of belladonna the skin is flushed, and a scarlatiniform erythe- 
matous rash may be present in belladonna poisoning. It is thus 
obvious that such a dose of belladonna relaxes the peripheral 
vessels. The exact cause of this has not definitely been made 
out, but it is extremely probable that it is largely a peripheral 
action, quite harmonizing with the peripheral action we have 
seen atropine to have on the involuntary muscles of the intestines, 
eye and heart ; that is to say, the vaso-constrictor nerve-filaments 
supplying the arterioles are paralyzed, and consequently the ves- 



284 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

sels dilate. The action of atropine on the medullary vaso-motor 
center is more marked than that on the cardiac medullary cen- 
ter ; but it is the same, — the center first being stimulated, and 
then depressed. This primary stimulation is sufficient to over- 
come the tendency of the peripheral vessels to dilate, so that bel- 
ladonna at first contracts them ; and as this stage of contraction 
lasts well into the period during which, owing to paralysis of the 
vagal terminations, the heart is accelerated, the blood-pressure 
rises considerably : subsequently it falls, the fall being due 
to the depression of the vaso-motor center and the peripheral 
action of belladonna on the vessels, causing their wide dilata- 
tion. Ultimately, when the heart itself is paralyzed, the blood- 
pressure is very low. The spinal vaso-motor centers are acted on 
as powerfully and in the same way as the medullary center. 

Respiration and its nerves. — Here also belladonna paralyzes 
peripheral nerve-filaments, in this case those of the vagus 
in the bronchial tubes. Both the afferent and efferent pulmo- 
nary vagal fibres are affected. The result is that the muscular 
coat of the bronchial tubes is relaxed, and that the secretions 
(the activity of the afferent fibres being depressed) do not irri- 
tate the nerves so much as before, and therefore cough is lessened. 
It will be remembered that the quantity of bronchial secretion is 
diminished. The medullary and spinal respiratory centers are 
influenced precisely as the vaso-motor, — that is to say, they are 
first stimulated, and so the respirations are quicker and deeper, 
then large doses paralyze them, and the breathing is slow and 
shallow. The patient becomes asphyxiated, and this contributes 
to the result in a fatal case. 

Temperature. — This is decidedly raised by toxic doses of 
belladonna (it maybe four degrees or more). This rise is inde- 
pendent of the blood-pressure and of the diminution of perspira- 
tion. It is said that heat-production is greatly exaggerated. The 
heat-loss is also increased, probably because the flushing of the 
skin leads to a greater loss by radiation. 

Spinal cord. — Except for the action on the vaso-motor and 
respiratory spinal centers, belladonna has little influence on the 



BELLADONNA. 285 

spinal cord in man, but it has a well-marked tetanizing effect in 
frogs. It is said slightly to increase and afterwards diminish 
general reflex excitability. 

Cerebrum. — A considerable dose of belladonna causes delir- 
ium, showing that the higher centers are stimulated. Generally 
the stimulation takes place inco-ordinately. That it is powerful 
is indicated by the fact that in poisoning by belladonna the 
delirium will last for a long while. The subsequent quietude is 
not more than the exhaustion of the cerebrum from the continued 
delirium will explain. Belladonna rarely, if ever, produces gen- 
uine coma. Other symptoms that may be observed with large 
doses, and which are probably due to disorder of the brain, are 
staggering gait, giddiness, and occasionally convulsions. 

Elimination. — Atropine is probably eliminated entirely by 
the kidney. 

It will be seen that the dominant action of belladonna is 
to depress the activity of the terminations of nearly all varie- 
ties of nerves. In addition, it first stimulates and then 
depresses the three great medullary centers, and it is a 
deliriant. A summary of its effects on man will be given under 
the heading of Toxicology. 

Children can take considerable doses of belladonna without 
any symptoms of poisoning. Pigeons and rodents are peculiarly 
insusceptible to it. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Belladonna is used externally to relieve all sorts 
of pain, — for example, that of neuralgia, pleurodynia, and chronic 
osteo-arthritis. The liniment is excellent for these purposes. A 
glycerine preparation (made by rubbing extract of belladonna i 
oz. with boiling water 2 fl. dr., and then adding gradually 
glycerine 3 fl. oz.), soothes the pain of acute inflammations. This, 
or the plaster (not officinal), or the ointment, is very efficacious 
in preventing the secretion of milk in women who do not for any 
reason nurse their infants. Pruritus and local sweating of various 
parts of the body, especially the feet, may sometimes be 



286 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

stopped by the application of belladonna. A solution of sul- 
phate of atropine, 4 gr., camphor water 3 j will dilate the pupil for 
ophthalmoscopic examination. Atropine is often used in ophthal- 
mic practice to paralyze the movements of the iris and ciliary 
muscle, to break down adhesions, and to prevent the formation 
of contractions of the iris. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Belladonna has occasionally 
been employed to check salivation, and some use it to overcome 
constipation and colic. The extract is then given, and is com- 
monly combined with some purgative in a pill. Extract of bel- 
ladonna is often administered with opium in the form of a pill to 
patients suffering with typhlitis or peritonitis ; as it is given sev- 
eral times a day a large amount is taken, and this, as already ex- 
plained, probably paralyzes intestinal movements, and so aids the 
opium. 

Skin. — Sulphate of atropine (y^-gr.) injected subcutaneously, 
or one or two minims of the solution of Sulphate of Atropine, (1 
part, camphor water 100 parts), by the mouth, will sometimes 
arrest sweating, and this treatment may succeed with the night 
sweats of phthisis. 

Circulation. — There are many cases of heart disease in which 
belladonna may advantageously be combined with other drugs. 
Whenever we wish to empty the ventricle completely it is useful, 
for it will be remembered that it increases the rapidity of the 
heart without diminishing the force. But its greatest value is to 
remove cardiac pain and distress, which it often does most effec- 
tually. It may be conveniently applied as a plaster over the car- 
diac region, or it may be given internally, usually as the tinc- 
ture. 

Respiration. — As belladonna relaxes the muscular coat of the 
bronchial tubes it is of great value in spasmodic affections of the 
respiratory passages. Thus, of all the numerous drugs that have 
been given for whooping-cough, it is the best. It is also very 
useful in asthma, and in bronchitis with asthma-like paroxysms ; 
in the last-named disease its powerful stimulation of the respira- 
tory center and its capability of diminishing the secretion will, 



BELLADONNA. 287 

in properly chosen cases, render it particularly valuable. It is 
generally given as the tincture, and combined with other drugs. 

Genito-urinary diseases. — Belladonna is one of the favorite 
remedies for the nocturnal incontinence of children, and it occa- 
sionallv overcomes this trouble in adults when it is not due to 
organic diseases. Its power of relieving the spasm of involuntary 
muscle is well shown in the effectual manner in which the very 
painful vesical spasm which accompanies calculus, cystitis, and 
prostatitis may be benefited by it. It may be given internally 
as in the form of a suppository, or applied as a plaster to the 
perinaeum. 

It has been tried in many nervous diseases, but without any 

good results. 

Toxicology. 

If a person takes a moderate dose of belladonna he soon experiences. dry- 
ness of the mouth and throat, and as the food, therefore, cannot be properly 
lubricated, there is difficulty of swallowing ; the pulse may at first be a little 
slower than usual. The pupil is dilated ; accommodation is defective, and 
vision confused. The skin feels dry. If the dose has been a large one, these 
symptoms all come on qu : ckly; the conjunctivae and face, and perhaps other 
parts of the s" in are flushed, and the rate of the pulse is greatly increased, it 
may even be doubled. The patient staggers, feels giddy, and reels when he 
walks ; the throat soon becomes very hot, the skin still more flushed, the eyelids 
swell, and there may be a uniform erythematous rash. The temperature is often 
raised, the respirations are slow and deep. The pupils are very widely dilated. 
By this time the patient is quite delirious. There may be purging, but this is 
not common ; and sometimes he complains of a frequent desire to micturate, 
although he is unable to pass any urine. Death takes place from cardiac failure 
combined with asphyxia Post mortem. — The organs are all in a state of venous 
congestion, which is due to the asphyxia. If recovery takes place the patient 
may have no recollection of his illness. 

Treatment. — Give emetics (see p. 76) or wash out the stomach. Inject 
pilocarpine and stimulants subcutaneously. Employ artificial respiration. 

Antagonism. 

The antagonism between atropine and ?norphine has already been dis- 
cussed [see p. 274). It is clear that as pilocarpine stimulates the terminations 
of the secretory nerves in the salivary and sweat glands, and also excites the 
terminations of the third nerve in the iris and ciliary muscle, it is a diaphoretic, 
a sialogogue, and a myotic, and is in these respects antagonistic to atropine. 



288 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Physostigmine also causes contraction of the pupil and spasm of the ciliary 
muscle by stimulation of the terminations of the third nerve, and it depresses 
the respiratory center almost from the beginning. In these points it is an 
antagonist to atropine. 

STRAMONIUM. 

STRAMONII SEMEN.— Stramonium Seed. The dried ripe seed of 
Datura Stra??ionium, the thorn-apple (Nat. Ord. Solanacece), cultivated in 
Europe. 

Characters. — One-sixth inch long, reniform, flattened, brownish-black, 
finely pitted, wrinkled. Odor disagreeable when bruised. Taste bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is daturine. Symbol, C 17 H 23 N0 3 
(o*02 to 0*03 per cent.), an alkaloid, in crystals, resembling atropine, but lighter 
and more feathery. It exists as a malate. It is certainly very closely allied to 
hyoscyamine, and some consider that the two are identical [see p. 289). Some 
specimens are said to consist of atropine and hyoscyamine mixed. 

Incompatibles. — Caustic alkalies, metallic salts, and mineral acids. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Stramonii. — By maceration and percolation with 
diluted alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, X to yi gr. 

2. Tinctura Stramonii. — Stramonium seeds, 10 ; in diluted alco- 
hol, by maceration and percolation to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. Extractum Stramonii Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 3 m. 

4. Unguentum Stramonii. — Extract of stramonium, 10; water, 
5 ; benzoinated lard, 85. 

STRAMONII FOLIA.— The dried leaves of Datura Stramonium. 
Collected from plants in flower. Cultivated in Europe. 

Characters. — Ovate, petiolate, 4 — 8 in. long, dark green, unequal at 
base, sinuate-dentate, large irregular teeth or pointed lobes. Odor slightly 
narcotic. Taste saline and bitter. Resembling stramonium leaves. — Bella- 
donna leaves, but less wrinkled ; hyoscyamus leaves, hairy. 

Composition. — As of the seeds, but the proportion of daturine is very 
inconstant. 

Action. 

The physiological action of daturine is precisely that of atro- 
pine, and therefore that of stramonium is almost the same as 



HYOSCYAMUS. 289 

that of belladonna; the differences being that stramonium re- 
laxes the muscular coat of the bronchial tubes more powerfully 
than belladonna, and it may cause the heart to be a little ir- 
regular. 

Daturine is generally thought to be more active than atro- 
pine. 

Therapeutics. 

There is no reason why stramonium should not be employed 
for the same purposes as belladonna, but it is rarely used, except 
in cases of asthma to relieve the spasm of the bronchial tubes. 
For this it is very valuable. Cigarettes of the leaves may be 
smoked, or the drug may be given internally. The following 
powder, which gives off dense fumes if burnt, is said to afford 
great relief for asthma: — leaves of Datura Stramonium and of 
Datura Tatula, Cannabis Indica, and Lobelia Inflata, all in 
powder, and of each 6 dr. ; nitre in powder, i oz. ; eucalyptus 
oil, 30 Tit. Mix thoroughly. 

HYOSCYAMUS. 

HYOSCYAMI FOLIA.— Henbane Leaves. The fresh leaves and 
flowers, with the branches to which they are attached, of Hyoscyamus niger 
(Nat. Ord. Solanacece) ; also the leaves separated from the branches, and flower- 
ing tops carefully dried. Collected from biennial plants growing wild or 
cultivated in the United States, when about two-thirds of the flowers are ex- 
panded. The leaves only are officinal in U. S. P. 

Characters. — Varying in length up to 10 in., with or without stalks, 
alternate, exstipulate, triangular-ovate or ovate-oblong, pale green, glandular- 
hairy, particularly underneath. Branches subcylindrical, and also glandular- 
hairy. Odor strong, heavy when fresh. Taste bitter, slightly acrid. The 
juice dropped in the eye dilates the pupil. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Hyoscy amine, C 17 H 23 N0 3 , 
an alkaloid. It is very closely allied to, and probably the same as, the 
active alkaloids of belladonna and stramonium (see p. 288). It is also con- 
tained in many plants of the Natural Order Solanacece. According to most 
authorities it, like atropine, consists of tropic acid and tropine. There 
is in commerce an amorphous impure hyoscyamine, which is a dark brown ex- k 
tract-like fluid having a disagreeable odor. As it is much cheaper than the 
crystalline alkaloid it is often used. Probably it contains no hyoscyamine, but 
only hyoscine. (2) Hyoscine, This exists in the leaves. Characters : a white 

?5 



290 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

crystalline alkaloid. It is most likely a derivative of hyoscyamine, and isomeric 
with it. It is the active constituent of commercial hyoscyamine. Only its salts 
are used. 

Incompatibles. — Vegetable acids, nitrate of silver, acetate of lead, alkalies. 

Doses. — Hyoscyamus leaves are not given as such. 

Pure hyoscyamine (rarely used), T ^ to ^g gT. or more. 

Commercial hyoscyamine, ^ to y£ gT. 

Hydrobromate or hydriodide (the favorite salts) of hyoscine, yj^ to yj^ gT. 
in aqueous solution or pill, or in an aqueous solution subcutaneously. 

Hyoscine and hyoscyamine should be given cautiously, as the activity of 
different specimens is very variable. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Hyoscyami. — By maceration, percolation or eva- 
poration with alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 

2. Extractum Hyoscyami Alcoholicum. By maceration, perco- 
. lation in diluted alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 2 gr. 

3. Extractum Hyoscyami Fluidum. — By maceration and per- 
colation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

4. Tinctura Hyoscyami. — Dried leaves, 15; diluted alcohol 
to 100. By maceration and percolation. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

HYOSCYAMINiE SULPHATIS.— Sulphate of Hyoscyamine (C J7 
H 23 N0 3 ) 2 ,H 2 S0 4 . The neutral sulphate of an alkaloid prepared from Hyos- 
cyamus. 

Characters. — Small golden-yellow, or yellowish-white scales or crystals, 
or a yellowish- white amorphous powder, deliquescent, odorless, having a bitter 
and acrid taste, and a neutral reaction, very soluble in water and in alcohol. 

Dose, g 1 ^ to -Jq gr. Dissolved in water and given subcutaneously. 

Action. 

The action of hyoscyamus is almost identical with that of 
belladonna and stramonium, because of the identity of the 
hyoscyamine in hyoscyamus, the atropine in belladonna, and 
the daturine in stramonium. The following are the chief points 
of difference. (1) Hyoscyamus contains in addition hyoscine 



CANNABIS INDICA. 2pl 

in minute quantities. This is a powerful cerebral and spinal 
sedative, and therefore the excitation and delirium occasioned 
by the atropine in belladonna are not so evident when hyoscya- 
mus is given; indeed, that may, owing to the hyoscine in it, 
distinctly depress the higher functions of the brain. The heart 
is not quite so powerfully affected by hyoscyamus as by bella- 
donna, for hyoscine has a comparatively feeble cardiac influence. 
Still it is, of course, affected by the hyoscyamine, which acts 
like atropine. (2) Hyoscyamus increases the peristaltic 
contractions of the intestines more powerfully than belladonna, 
and at the same time it is more efficient in relieving the grip- 
ing of other purgatives. (3) Hyoscyamus has a more 
markedly sedative action on the urinary unstriped muscle 
than belladonna. 

Therapeutics. 

Hyoscyamus might be used for the same purposes as bella- 
donna, but is chiefly employed in combination with purgatives 
to diminish their griping action. It is also largely given to re- 
lieve vesical spasm in calculus, cystitis, and prostatitis, usually 
in conjunction with other urinary sedatives, as buchu, uva ursi, 
or benzoic acid if the urine is alkaline. It will be noticed that 
the doses of the preparations of hyoscyamus are larger than those 
of the corresponding preparations of belladonna. 

Hyoscine and commercial hyoscyamine may, if given cau- 
tiously, be employed as cerebral depressants, and are used in 
acute -mania, delirium tremens, febrile delirium, and insomnia, 
sometimes with good results. They are mostly given in asylum 
practice. Chorea, paralysis agitans, and other convulsive dis- 
eases have been treated with them, but the convulsions always 
recur when these drugs are discontinued. 

CANNABIS INDICA. 

INDIAN HEMP. — The dried flowering or fruiting tops of the female 
plants of Cannabis sativa (Nat. Ord. Cannabinece) , from which the resin has 
not been removed. India. 

Characters. — Masses \]/ z to 2^ in. long, consisting of the tops of alter- 



292 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

nate branches bearing the remains of flowers, leaves, and a few ripe fruits, and 
compressed by adhesive resin. Or, as straight, stiff, woody stems, several 
inches long, surrounded by branched flower-stalks. Rough, very brittle, dusky 
green. Odor, faint, narcotic. Taste, none. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (1) Cannabinon, an active 
principle. (2) Cannabinine, a volatile alkaloid. (3) Tetano-cannabine, an 
alkaloid. (4) Cannabin, a glucoside. (5 ) Cannabene, a volatile oil. (6) A 
resin, said to be very active. 

Incompatibles. — Water, which precipitates the resin. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Cannabis Indicae. — By maceration and percola- 
tion in alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, yg to ^ gr. 

2. Extractum Cannabis Indicae Fluidum. — By maceration, 
percolation in alcohol, which is distilled off, and evaporation. 

Dose, 2 to 5 m. 

3. Tinctura Cannabis Indicae. — Powdered Indian Hemp, 20; 
Alcohol, by maceration and percolation, to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

Synonyms. — Haschisch is a confection of the drug. Gunjah, or ganga, is 
the dried leaves prepared for smoking. Churrus is the resin scraped off the 
leaves. 

CANNABIS AMERICANA. — American Cannabis. Cannabis sativa 
Linne (Nat. Ord. Urlicacece, Cannabinece), grown in the Southern United 
States and collected while flowering. 

Characters. — Stem about 6 feet long, rough; leaves apposite below, 
alternate above, petiolate, digitate ; the leaflets linear-lanceolate, serrate ; dioe- 
cious, the staminate flowers, in pedunculate clusters, forming compound racemes ; 
the pistillate flowers axillary, sessile and brachteate ; odor, heavy ; taste, bitter, 
slightly acrid. 

It has the same uses as Cannabis Indica, but is less active. 

Action. 

External. — None is known. 

Internal. — The effects of cannabis indica vary very much 
in different people. This is partly due to the uncertain strength 
of the preparations of the drug, and partly to individual peculi- 
arities, but generally the symptoms are somewhat as follow. 
After some time, usually from half an hour to two or three hours, 



CAFFEINE. 293 

there is a pleasurable sensation of mild intoxication ; the patient 
is particularly gay, joyous, and pleased with everything; he will 
laugh and smile on the slightest provocation, and is himself able to 
say sharp, witty things. Pleasant ideas flit through his mind with 
wonderful rapidity, so that time seems to him much extended. 
Generally the ideas are quickly forgotten, but sometimes the 
memory of them remains after recovery. The eyes are bright, 
the pupils may be dilated. The limbs feel heavy, and there is a 
marked lowering of general sensibility, so that he scarcely feels a 
severe pinch ; this may pass on to complete anaesthesia. There 
may be headache. After a time sleep, which is often accompanied 
by delightful dreams, comes on. The drug is frequently taken 
in the East to produce the early pleasurable symptoms, but this 
habit is said to lead to loss of appetite and strength, trembling, 
and much weakness. Cannabis indica is reputed to occasionally 
produce sexual excitement, but this is probably incorrect. No 
details about its physiogical action are known. 

Therapeutics. 

It has been given with success in migraine and neuralgia, but 
it very often fails to afford relief. Its use as an hypnotic has 
been discarded. The tincture is very difficult to prescribe, be- 
cause of the voluminous precipitate of resin which falls on the 
addition of water. Mucilage must be used to suspend it, and 
the taste should be covered with spirit of chloroform. 

CAFFEINA. 

CAFFEINE.— Synonyms.— Theme, Guaranine. C 8 H 10 N 4 O 2 ,H 2 O. A 
proximate principle of feeble alkaloidal power usually obtained from the 
dried leaves of Camellia Thea, common tea (Nat. Ord. Ternstrcefniacece), or 
the dried seeds of Coffea arabica, common coffee (Nat. Ord. Rubiacecz), by 
evaporating aqueous infusions from which the astringent and coloring matters 
have been removed. 

Characters. — Colorless, silky, inodorous, acicular crystals. Solubility. — 
I in 75 of cold water, 1 in I of boiling water, I in 35 of alcohol, I in 400 of 
ether, 1 in 6 of chloroform. Tea contains 3 to 5 per cent, (hence the name 
theine). Coffee, 1.3 per cent, (coffee leaves contain much more). Guarana 
(the seeds of Paullinia sorbilis), 5 per cent, (hence the name guaranine) 



294 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Mate (Paraguay tea, the leaves of Ilex paragnayensis), 1.2 per cent. It also 
exists in the kola nut (which is used as a beverage in Africa) ; this is the fruit 
of Sterculia acuminata. Caffeine is trimethyl-xanthine, theobromine is dime- 
thyl-xanthine, and both can be prepared synthetically from xanthine. It is a 
feeble alkaloidal body, its salts being very liable to split up. 

Incompatibles. — Iodide of potassium, salts of mercury, and tannic 
acid. 

Dose, i to 5 gr. or more. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Excessive tea-drinking may 
cause indigestion, but this is probably induced by the tannin in 
the tea, and not by the caffeine. The teeth of tea tasters are 
very liable to decay. Coffee is, with some persons, slightly laxa- 
tive; it is not known to what ingredient this is due. 

Circulation. — Caffeine is freely absorbed. It produces no 
change in the blood. Experiments concerning its action on the 
heart are contradictory, but there appears no doubt that in man 
moderate doses increase the force of the cardiac contraction 
and the duration of the systole, the diastolic period being 
shortened ; as a consequence of this the blood-pressure rises. 
Toxic doses paralyze the heart. These effects are also produced 
by the local application of caffeine to the heart of the frog. 

Respiration. — This is not much influenced by caffeine. Medi- 
cinal doses are said to excite and toxic doses to depress it. 

Nervous system. — It is well known that tea and coffee stimu- 
late the cerebrum. This is due to the caffeine in them. 
The patient becomes wakeful, the mental activity and capability 
for work are increased, the reasoning powers being quite as much 
affected as the imagination. In this respect the cerebral stimu- 
lation of caffeine differs from that of opium, and also in that the 
excitation is not inco-ordinate, nor is it soon replaced by sleep. 
Very excessive tea-drinking causes trembling of all the muscles of 
the body, and makes the patient extremely "nervous." 

* In man the spinal cord and muscles are very little affected by 
caffeine, but in some frogs the spinal cord is decidedly stimulated, 
and convulsions occur; in other species the muscles are thrown 



CAFFEINE. 295 

into a state of rigidity, which is clearly due to an action on the 
muscles themselves, for it follows the application of caffeine to an 
isolated muscle. Sometimes the muscle curve is altered in char- 
acter. It is believed that in man the powers of muscular endur- 
ance are increased by caffeine. Motor and sensory nerves are 
uninfluenced in all animals. 

Kidneys, — By means of the oncometer it has been shown that 
the first effect of a dose of caffeine is to cause a contraction of the 
kidney with a decrease in the urinary flow ; but soon the organ 
becomes larger than it was before the experiment, and the flow of 
urine is increased. Thus caffeine is a good local diuretic. 

Metabolism. — Many elaborate experiments have been made 
upon the action of caffeine on tissue waste ; they are all of them 
inconclusive, probably because it has no effect. Some say it de- 
creases, some that it increases the elimination of urea. Toxic 
doses may cause a slight rise of temperature. 

Therapeutics. 

Heart. — Caffeine has been most used in heart disease. It is 
given when, as in aortic or mitral obstruction, a purely stimulant 
effect is desired \ large doses, 10 or 20 grains a day of the citrate, 
are often easily borne, and may be combined with strychnine. 
Caffeine will not replace digitalis, for it does not slow the heart 
nor make it regular, and it shortens the diastole. It is, on ac- 
count of its diuretic action, especially valuable in cardiac cases in 
which there is dropsy. Tea and coffee are, in some persons, 
liable to produce irregularity of the heart. 

Kidney. — Small doses of caffeine are powerfully diuretic, and 
are therefore used in heart disease, ascites, pleuritic effusion, &c. 
As the drug acts directly on the kidney, it should be given 
cautiously in renal disease. Many patients so soon become used 
to it, that at the end of a week it has lost its power of producing 
diuresis. 

Nervous system.— Occasionally it cures migraine, but it is not 
so useful asantipyrin or exalgine {see Appendix). 

It may be rendered sufficiently soluble for subcutaneous ad- 
ministration by mixing it with a solution of salicylate of sodium. 



296 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

GUARANA. 

GUARANA. — Synonym. — Brazilian cocoa. — A dried paste made from 
the crushed or ground seeds of Paullinia sorbilis (Nat. Ord., Sapindacece). 
Eastern South America. 

Characters. — Sub-globular or elliptic cakes, or cylindrical sticks, hard, 
dark reddish-brown ; structure uneven, somewhat glossy, showing fragments of 
seeds invested with a black texture; odor slight, peculiar, resembling choco- 
late ; taste, astringent, bitter ; it is partly soluble in water, and in alcohol. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is guaranine, identical with caffeine 

{see p. 293). 

Preparation. 

Extractum Guaranae Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, }( to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Although there is no reason to believe that guaranine does not 
produce the same action on the nervous system, heart and kidneys 
as caffeine, yet it is rarely used except for sick headaches ; but in 
these cases it is sometimes of the greatest service. 

NUX VOMICA. 

NUX VOMICA. Synonyms.— St. Ignatius bean, Poison nut. The 
seeds of Strychnos Nux-vomica (Nat. Ord., Loganiacece). East Indies. 

Characters. — Disc-shaped, ]/& to 1 in. in diameter, ^ in. thick. Flat 
or concavo-convex. Margin rounded. On one surface a central scar, from 
which a ridge passes to the margin, and ends in a slight prominence. Exter- 
nally ashen-gray, glistening with short satiny hairs. Internally horny and 
slightly translucent. No odor. Taste, extremely bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Strychnine (q. v.), 0.2 to 
0.6 per cent.; (2) Brucine, C 23 H 26 N 2 4 , 0.5 to 1.0 per cent. Colorless pris- 
matic crystals or pearly flakes. Very bitter, but less so than strychnine. Solu- 
bility. — 1 in 3200 of cold water, freely in alcohol. It has the same action as 
strychnine, but is considerably less powerful and slower in its effects. Strong 
sulphuric or nitric acid gives a blood-red color. (3) Igasuric acid, with which 
the strychnine and brucine are united. (4) Igasurine, an alkaloid closely 
resembling the other two, has been said to be present. 

Preparations. 
1. Abstractum Nucis Vomicae. — By maceration and percolation 
in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, ^ to 2 gr. 



NUX VOMICA. 297 

2. Extractum Nucis Vomicae. — By maceration and percolation 
in alcohol and water, evaporation. 

Dose, }i to 1 gr. 

3. Extractum Nucis Vomicae Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation in alcohol and water. Distil off the alcohol and evaporate. 

Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

4. Tinctura Nucis Vomicae. — Nux Vomica, 20; alcohol and 
water to 100. By maceration, percolation and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

STRYCHNINA.— Strychnine. C 21 H 22 N 2 2 . 

Source. — (1) Make a fluid extract of powdered nux vomica by digesting 
with alcohol and water for twelve hours at a gentle heat. (2) Add acetate of 
lead to the extract, and thereby precipitate igasurate of lead and coloring mat- 
ter. (3) Filter off the fluid, which contains acetate of strychnine and brucine. 
(4) These are precipitated with ammonia. (5) This precipitate is dissolved in 
alcohol, distilled to a small volume, and set aside to crystallize. Strychnine is 
the first to crystallize, leaving the brucine in solution. 

Characters. — Minute, colorless, odorless, octahedral or prismatic crys- 
tals. Intensely bitter; can be tasted in a solution of I in 700,000 (but only to 
be tasted in weak solutions, as it is so poisonous). Solubility. — 1 in 6700 of 
cold, I in 2500 of hot water, I in 6 of chloroform, I in 40 of alcohol. Almost 
insoluble in absolute alcohol and in ether. Gives no color with nitric or sul- 
phuric acids. Add to a crystal strong sulphuric acid, and then add a particle 
of bichromate of potassium, a beautiful violet color, passing to brown and 
green, is formed. Resejnbling strychnine. — Salicylic acid (q. v.). 

Impurity.- Brucine, distinguished by tests. 

Dose, gL to T \ gr. in solution, or made in a pill with sugar of milk (to 
thoroughly divide it) and glycerine of tragacanth ; -^ to 2V & r * hypodermi- 
cally, or the nitrate soluble I in 70 of water may be used. 

STRYCHNINE SULPHAS.— Sulphate of Strychnine. (C 21 H 22 
N 2 2 ) 2 H 2 S0 4 . 

Source. — By the action of diluted sulphuric acid on strychnine. 

Characters. — Colorless or white, shining, prismatic crystals, efflorescent, 
odorless, of an intensely bitter taste, and of a neutral reaction. 

Solubility. — In 10 parts of water and 60 of alcohol. 

Dose, J 7 to J- gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Ferri et Strychninae Citras. (See Iron, p. 161.) 

2. Syrupus Ferri, Quininae et Strychninae Phosphatum. {See 
Iron, p. 160.) 

26 



298 organic materia medica. 

Action. 

External. — Strychnine is a very powerful antiseptic. 
Brucine is a local anaesthetic. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Being intensely bitter, 
nux vomica is a good stomachic, increasing the vascularity of 
the gastric mucous membrane, the secretion of gastric juice, and 
the movements of the stomach, just like calumba, gentian, or any 
other bitter ; consequently it aids digestion and sharpens the ap- 
petite. In the intestine it is a direct stimulant to the intestinal 
muscular coat, and by this means it increases peristalsis, and 
is therefore purgative. 

Blood. — Strychnine is absorbed into the blood, and circulates 
as such. If blood is mixed with strychnine and shaken with air, 
it contains more oxygen and less carbonic acid than it would 
have done had the strychnine been absent ; but there is no evi- 
dence that strychnine in small doses alters the oxidizing power of 
living blood. 

Spinal cord. — Strychnine causes convulsions. They are 
not cerebral, for they occur if the spinal cord is separated 
from the brain. They do not depend upon excitation of the 
motor nerves or muscles, for they are absent in a limb, the spinal 
anterior nerve-roots of which are cut. They do not depend up- 
on stimulation of sensory nerves, for they occur even if the pos- 
terior nerve-roots are cut. Therefore they must be spinal ; and 
this is proved by the fact that if all the vessels of the lower part 
of the spinal cord are ligatured just at their entry into the cord, 
so that this is the only part of the body deprived of its blood sup- 
ply, and strychnine is injected into the blood, convulsions occur 
in all the muscles except those the nerves of which spring from 
the part of the cord which the strychnine cannot reach. Again, 
if an animal be convulsed by strychnine, and a probe be slowly 
passed down the spinal canal, the convulsions will gradually cease 
from above downwards. Strychnine, therefore, enormously in- 
creases the excitability of the motor nerve-cells of the spinal cord. 
The result is that even the slightest stimulus, as a breath of air, 
acting reflexly, causes violent convulsions. 



NUX VOMICA. 299 

Muscles and nerves. — Even with enormous doses the muscles 
and afferent nerves are unaffected. Towards the end of a case of 
poisoning the functional activity of the motor nerves is depressed. 
This is not due, as has been thought, to their exhaustion from the 
transmission of the impulses from the spinal cord which produce 
the convulsions, but it is the result of a direct paralyzing effect on 
the motor nerves themselves. 

Brain — The convolutions are quite unaffected. The 
centers in the medulla, which are really the continuation upwards 
of the anterior cornual cells of the cord, are powerfully stimu- 
lated, especially the respiratory center. The vaso-motor 
center is also considerably excited, and chiefly for this reason 
the blood-pressure rises from the very first. The cardiac center 
is but slightly affected. 

Circulation.— Strychnine stimulates the heart directly, 
either by its action on the cardiac muscle, or, as most authorities 
think, by stimulating the motor ganglia. The blood-pressure 
is raised, partly no doubt by the action on the heart, but also 
by the contraction of the vessels all over the body, which is 
brought about first by the direct excitation by the strychnine, of 
the medullary vaso-motor center, and subsequently by its asphyx- 
ial stimulation, and also by the increased peripheral resistance 
which must occur from the frequent contraction of all the 
muscles 

Respiration. — Respiration is rendered quicker and deeper 
because strychnine excites the spinal and medullary respiratory 
centers. The respiratory muscles are implicated in the general 
convulsions, with the result that the patient ultimately becomes 
asphyxiated owing to exhaustion of them, and to their prolonged 
contraction during the convulsive spasms. The heart continues 
to beat after death, which is entirely due to failure of respiration. 
The temperature is a little raised during strychnine poisoning. 

Special senses. — The hearing and sight are sharpened by 
strychnine. 

Elimination. — Part of the strychnine is eliminated unchanged 
in the urine ; the rest appears as strychnic acid. It is excreted 



300 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

very slowly, and therefore accumulates in the system. For a 
clinical account of strychnine poisoning see Toxicology. 

Brucine and thebaine act like strychnine, but methylbrucine, 
methylthebaine, and methylstrychnine do not influence the cord, 
but paralyze the ends of the motor nerves like curare. 

" Therapeutics. 

External. —Strychnine is so poisonous that its use as an 
antiseptic would not be safe. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Tincture of nux vomica 
is very largely given with excellent results as a bitter stomachic 
and carminative, especially in cases in which the feebleness of 
digestion is merely part of generally feeble health. A mixture 
of dilute hydrochloric acid, gentian and nux vomica is of great 
service in these cases. As the digestion improves the general 
health improves. Because of its power to stimulate peristalsis 
nux vomica is a valuable drug for cases of constipation in which 
the contractile strength of the muscular coat of the intestine is 
weak ; usually this is part of a general weakness of the whole 
body. The constipation of anaemia, which can be very success- 
fully treated by a pill of extract of nux vomica and sulphate of 
iron, is a good instance of this variety of constipation. 

Circulation. — In cases of heart disease in which digitalis is 
inadmissible, nux vomica and strychnine are excellent cardiac 
stimulants, and for this purpose they may be combined with 
caffeine. Patients almost dead from failure of the heart in the 
course of chronic cardiac disease may sometimes be brought round 
by the subcutaneous injection of strychnine. 

Respiration. — Strychnine may be combined with expectorants 
because it stimulates the respiratory center ; and it is extremely 
serviceable when from any cause, such as severe bronchitis, the 
respirations are feeble and shallow. 

Nervous system. — It has been given for a number of nervous 
diseases, but with no constantly good results, for when the disease is 
not in the anterior cornua, strychnine is hardly indicated ; and if 
it is in this part of the cord, it is doubtful whether it is advisable 
to stimulate the part of the body which is diseased. 



NU-X VOMICA. 30I 



Toxicology. 



In about an hour after a poisonous dose the patient begins to feel uneasy 
from a sensation of impending suffocation. The tetanic convulsions then com- 
mence with great violence, nearly all the muscles of the body being affected at 
once. The limbs are thrown out, the hands are clenched, the head is jerked 
forwards and then bent backwards, and the whole body is perfectly stiff from 
the violence of the contractions. The pulse is very rapid ; the temperature may 
rise. Hearing and sight are acute. The convulsion lasts a minute or two, then 
the muscles relax, and the patient feels exhausted and sweats all over. The 
intermission is short, convulsions soon come on again, and again there is a re- 
lapse to the state of muscular relaxation. The convulsions now rapidly increase 
in severity, and owing to the violent contractions of the muscles of the back, 
the patient is in the position of opisthotonos, resting on his head and his heels. 
The abdominal muscles are as hard as a board, the chest is fixed, the face be- 
comes livid, the eyeballs are staring. The contraction of the muscles of the 
face causes a risus sardonicus; but those of the jaw are not affected till quite 
the end. Consciousness is retained to the last. The slightest noise or even a 
bright light will reflexly bring on the convulsions, which may jerk the patient 
out of bed. Ultimately he dies from exhaustion and asphyxia. The smallest 
dose of strychnine known to have killed is half a grain. Post mortem. — The 
usual appearances of death by asphyxia are seen. 

Strychnine poisoning is liable to be confounded with tetanus, but in this 
disease symptoms come on more slowly, the muscles of the jaw are implicated 
very early, and there is continuous muscular rigidity with paroxysmal exacer- 
bations, but never complete muscular relaxation. 

Treatment. — Give emetics (p. 76), or wash out the stomach if the case is 
seen early enough for the passing of the tube not to cause spasm. Also give 
plenty of animal charcoal or tannic acid, but continue the washing out. Inject 
large doses of bromide of potassium and hydrate of chloral per recttim. Use 
nitrite of amyl inhalations, and if possible artificial respiration. 

Antagonism. 

In a sense strychnine is antidotal to chloral and morphine, but it is not a 
strict antidote, for they act chiefly on the cerebrum. Still chloral is valuable in 
strychnine poisoning, and although the antagonism with Calabar bean and gel- 
semium is more accurate, as both depress the anterior cornua, yet they are of 
very little use in strychnine poisoning. 

Strychnine acts on all animals as on man, but chickens, 
guinea-pigs, and perhaps monkeys are less susceptible to it than 
other animals. 



30 2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

IGNATIA. 

BEAN OF ST. IGNATIUS.— The seed of Strychnos Ignatii (Nat. 
Ord. Loganiacece.) Philippine Islands. 

Characters. — About i\ in. long, oblong or ovate, irregularly angular, 
dull, brownish or blackish, very hard, horny ; inodorous ; very bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are : (i) strychnine, 1.2 per cent. ; 
(2) brucine, 0.5 per cent.; (3) igasuric acid; (4) a volatile principle. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Ignatiae. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol and water, evaporation and addition of sugar of milk. 

Dose, ^ to 1 gr. 

2. Tinctura Ignatiae. — Ignatia, 10. By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol and water, to 1 00. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Uses. 

Ignatia is used for precisely the same purposes as nux vomica, but 
the preparations are stronger. 

PHYSOSTIGMA. 

CALABAR BEAN. — The seed of Physostigma venenosum (Nat. Ord. 
Leguminosce). Western Africa. 

Characters. — 1 to 1% in. long, % m - broad, y 2 in. thick. Oblong, 
slightly reniform, with a black furrow all along its convex border. Testa hard, 
brittle, roughish, deep brown, enclosing a closely adherent nucleus, which prin- 
cipally consists of two hard, white, brittle cotyledons separated by a cavity. 
Inodorous. No distinctive taste. Usually contains 0.12 per cent, of total al- 
kaloids. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are two alkaloids : ( 1 ) Physostig- 
mine or Esei'ine (see below) ; (2) Calabarine. 

Dose, )4 t° 2 g r « °f powdered beans. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Physostigmatis. — By maceration, percolation in 
alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, yL to Yz gr. internally, or rather less dissolved in 10 TTt of 
water and given subcutaneously. 

2. Tinctura Physostigmatis. — By maceration, percolated with 
alcohol. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 



CALABAR BEAM. 303 

PHYSOSTIGMINE SALICYLAS. 

PHYSOSTIGMINE SALICYLAS.— C 15 H 21 N 3 2 C t H 6 3 . The sal- 
icylate of an alkaloid prepared from Physostigma. 

Characters. — Colorless, shining, acicular or short, columnar crystals, 
gradually turning reddish, odorless, bitter. Soluble in 130 parts of water, 1 2 
parts of alcohol. 

Dose, T1 L to 3-L gr. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Mouth. — After physostigmine is absorbed it in- 
creases the salivary secretion ; and this, according to some, 
is through its action on the centre in the medulla, according to 
others by its direct effect on the salivary cells. After a time the 
flow of saliva ceases, because the drug has so acted on the circu- 
lation as to constrict the vessels, and consequently the flow of 
blood through the salivary glands is diminished. 

Stomach and intestines. — The muscular coat of the stomach 
and intestines is stimulated by the direct action of the drug 
circulating through it. The result is that after a large dose 
vomiting and purging occur. Physostigmine is quickly absorbed. 

Circulation. — No influence on the blood is known. The 
effect on the heart is obscure, but it appears that the irritability of the 
peripheral terminations of the vagus is at first increased, and that 
consequently the heart is slowed. Very large doses are said to 
decrease the irritability of the vagus. In addition to its effects 
on the vagus, physostigmine powerfully stimulates the contractile 
force of the heart. The beat is therefore both more forcible 
and slower. Ultimately the organ is paralyzed and stops in 
diastole. 

The blood-pressure rises very much ; this is largely due to 
the increased force of the cardiac oeat, but perhaps partly to the 
irritation of the muscular coat of the arteries by physostigmine, 
for it stimulates most of the involuntary muscles in the 
body. 

Respiration is first quickened but soon retarded, and death 
takes place from asphyxia, Three factors at least are probably 



304 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

concerned in bringing about these results. The ends of the vagi 
in the lungs are stimulated, for if these nerves are cut and physo- 
stigmine is administered there is no primary quickening of re- 
spiration. Physostigmine, from its action on involuntary muscu- 
lar fibre, causes contraction of that in the bronchial tubes, with con- 
sequent constriction of them. Lastly and the most important, the 
activity of the respiratory centers in the medulla and cord is de- 
pressed. 

Nervous system. — Brain. — Even in fatal doses consciousness 
is unimpaired. The only part of the brain known to be affected 
is the respiratory centre. 

Spinal cord. — It is here that physostigmine produces its most 
characteristic effects. Reflex activity is inhibited ; by ex- 
clusion it can be shown that this is not owing to any influence on 
the nerves or voluntary muscles, therefore it is due to depression 
of the anterior cornua of the spinal cord. The most con- 
clusive proof of this is the direct application of the drug to the 
cord. There is then, at first, from the irritation, which is caused 
by almost any substance, a slight increase of reflex excitability, 
but this soon gives way to complete abolition of it. Later on 
the posterior part of the cord is also paralyzed, so that there is a 
diminution of cutaneous sensibility. 

Voluntary muscles and their nerves. — These are but slightly 
influenced. With very large doses the irritability of motor 
nerves and muscles is slightly depressed ; sensory nerves are unaf- 
fected. 

Involuntary muscles. — We have already seen that the involun- 
tary muscles of the intestines, stomach, and bronchial tubes are 
stimulated by physostigmine ; so also are those of the spleen, 
uterus, bladder and iris. It is not decided whether in all these 
instances it is the muscular fibres or the terminations of the nerves 
in them that are affected. 

Eye. — Physostigmine applied locally to the conjunctiva or in- 
troduced into the circulation causes contraction of the pupil, 
spasm of accommodation, and a diminution of intra- 
ocular tension. In the main these effects are due to irritation 



CALABAR BEAN. 305 

of the terminations of the third nerve, and can be prevented 
by atropine. Some consider that the muscular fibres are also affected, 
and others that the peripheral sympathetic nerve-fibres in the iris 
are paralyzed. 

Secretions. — The saliva, sweat, tears, and buccal mucus are in- 
creased. The cause of this is unknown. 

The action of physostigmine is much more constant than that 
of Calabar bean, because the calabarine (which stimulates the 
cord) in the bean interferes with the action of physostigmine. 

Therapeutics. 

Involuntary muscles. — Because of its stimulating power on un- 
striped muscle Calabar bean has been recommended for chronic 
constipation, atony of the bladder, and chronic bronchitis with 
deficient power of expectoration, but it is rarely given for these 
purposes. 

Spinal cord. — Calabar bean has been largely used for 
tetanus, and some cases of recovery have been reported ; proba- 
bly it is the most efficacious drug we have for this disease. It 
must be administered boldly, ^ of a grain of the extract 
frequently repeated may be injected under the skin ; or if phy- 
sostigmine itself is preferred, the salicylate may be given subcu- 
taneously in doses of -g 1 ^ to ^ grain by the mouth, or i to 6TTL of 
a solution of i grain of the salicylate of physostigmine in i6otTL 
of water. The sulphate may be used in the same doses. Physo- 
stigmine has been given as an antidote for strychnine poisoning. 

Eye. — A solution of salicylate of physostigmine is dropped in 
the eye to break up adhesions of the iris, to diminish intra-ocular 
tension, and to prevent prolapse of the iris after wounds or ulcers 
of the cornea. It is also employed in glaucoma, in paralysis of 
the iris and ciliary muscles, and to prevent the entrance of light 
into the eye in photophobia. If used in solution, y^ to 2 gr. of 
the salicylate of physostigmine to gj of water is the usual strength. 

Antagonisms. 
It will be observed that in its actions on the pupil, on secretion, on the 
heart, and on respiration, physostigmine is antagonistic to atropine. In its ac- 
tion on the spinal cord and respiratory center it is antagonistic to strychnine. 



306 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

GELSEMIUM. 

GELSEMIUM. — Yellow Jasmine. The rhizome and rootlets of Gelse- 
mium sempei'virens (Nat. Ord. Loganiacece). From the south-eastern United 
States. 

Characters. — Nearly cylindrical, % to 6 in. long, % to j£ m - m diame- 
ter, small rootlets mixed with or attached to the larger pieces ; light yellowish 
brown externally, with longitudinal dark purple lines ; bark thin, with silky 
fibres in its liber ; body-axis pale yellow, porous, with medullary rays. Odor 
narcotic, aromatic. Taste bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Gelsemine, a powerful, 
yellowish- white, minutely crystalline, bitter alkaloid, soluble in alcohol and 
ether, sparingly in water. The hydrochlorate is the common salt. (2) Gelse- 
minic acid. (3) A volatile oil. 

Dose, 5 to 10 gr. Of hydrochlorate of gelsemine, -^ to -^ gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Gelsemii Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion in alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 10 m. 

2. Tinctura Gelsemii. — Gelsemium, 15 ; by maceration and per- 
colation in alcohol, to 100. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Gelsemium produces no effect on the stomach or 
intestines 

Brain. — In poisoning by gelsemium consciousness is main- 
tained till the end ; the drug, therefore, has no power on the 
higher cerebral centers. 

Spinal cord. — The most marked symptom produced by gelse- 
mium is paralysis of all the muscles of the body ; and by a 
series of experiments, like those used for strychnine, this can be 
shown to be due to depression of the activity of the anteri- 
or cornua of the spinal cord. This is said to be followed by a 
depression of the sensory part of the cord, with consequent 
anaesthesia. The motor nerves and muscles are quite unaffected, 
even till death. The result of this action on the cord is that the 
patient may be unable to walk, or if he can, the gait is staggering ; 



GELSEMIUM. 307 

his general sensibility is much impaired. Convulsions may be 
produced. The cause of these cannot be made out, for they ap- 
pear to be neither cerebral, spinal, nor peripheral. 

Eye. — Gelsemium soon causes disturbance of vision, then fol- 
lows diplopia, due to paralysis of the ocular muscles, and 
from the same cause the upper lid drops. The pupil is dilated. 
All these symptoms are probably owing to the paralysis of the motor 
cells in the floor of the fourth ventricle and the aqueduct of Sylvius, 
for these are the continuation upwards of the anterior cornual cells. 

Circulation. — The action of moderate doses is not marked. 
Toxic doses are powerfully depressant ; the force and rate of the 
pulse and the blood-pressure fall. This is owing to a direct 
action on the heart. How far these effects are due also to affec- 
tion of the medullary and spinal centres is not known. 

Respiration. — Soon after the administration of gelsemium the 
respiration becomes slower and more feeble ; ultimately it stops, 
death taking place by asphyxia. This is due to paralysis of the 
respiratory centers in the cord and medulla. Before death the 
temperature falls, and the skin is bathed in a cold sweat. 

Therapeutics. 
Gelsemium was formerly given as a circulatory depressant, 
but it is not now used, as its other effects are so harmful. Nor is it 
any longer prescribed for convulsive diseases, as tetanus, whoop- 
ing-cough, chorea, etc., as it was not found to do any good. It 
is occasionally used for neuralgia and migraine; how it acts is 
quite uncertain; the dose must be pushed, and often the drug 
fails. Sometimes it is employed to dilate the pupil and paralyze 
accommodation. It will do this when applied locally, for it is 
quickly absorbed from the eye. It has the advantage that its 
influence passes off rapidly. Discs of gelatine, each containing -^ 
gr. gelsemium, are made for application to the eye. 

CONIUM. 
CONIUM. — Hemlock. The full grown fruit of Conium maculatum, 
the spotted hemlock (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce), gathered while yet green. United 
States. 



308 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — About one-eighth of an inch long ; broadly ovate ; laterally 
compressed, gray-green, often divided into two mericarps, each with five crenate 
ribs, without oil-tubes, and containing a seed which is grooved on the face ; 
odor and taste slight. When triturated with a solution of potassa, conium gives 
off a strong, disagreeable odor. Resembling conium fruit. — Caraway, anise, 
dill, all known by having vittse (oil-tubes). 

Incompatibles. — Caustic alkalies, vegetable acids, and astringents. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (i) Conine, C 8 H 16 HN, the 
active principle; a yellowish, oily, strongly alkaline, liquid alkaloid, with a 
mouse-like odor and a tobacco-like taste. Solubility. — I in loo of water. It 
is easily obtained from the plant by distillation with alkalies. It is most abun- 
dant in the fruit. It is readily decomposed by light and heat, and the prepara- 
tions of conium are therefore of very varying strengths. Its salts are much 
more stable. (2) Methyl-conine, C 8 H U CH 3 N. A colorless, fluid alkaloid. ^3) 
Conhydrine, a nearly inert crystallizable alkaloid. ^4) Conic acid. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. in powder. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Conii. — Powdered conium, macerated with diluted 
hydrochloric acid and alcohol, percolated and evaporated. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

2. Extractum Conii Alcoholicum. — Powdered conium, macer- 
ated and percolated with diluted alcohol, evaporated with dilute hydro- 
chloric acid, to pilular consistence to which five per cent, of glycerine is 
added. 

Dose, ^ to 1 gr. 

3. Extractum Conii Fluidum. — Powdered conium macerated, 
percolated with diluted alcohol, evaporated with diluted hydrochloric 
acid. 

Dose, 2 to 5 m. 

4. Tinctura Conii.— Powdered conium, 15; by maceration and 
percolation with diluted alcohol, to 1 00. 

Dose, X to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Conine has no influence on the unbroken skin, 
but it has been thought to be anaesthetic when applied to painful 
broken surfaces. This is doubtful, for in the first place we have 
no proof that it can be absorbed from sores; and, secondly, ex- 
periments show that enormous doses have to be given to depress 
the activity of sensory nerves. 



CONIUM. 309 

Internal.— Gastro-intestinal tract. — It has no special action 
here, but it may occasionally give rise to vomiting and diarrhoea. 

Circulation. — Conine is absorbed into the blood, and circu- 
lates unchanged. As it paralyzes the terminations of the vagus 
it probably increases the rapidity of the cardiac beat, but this 
subject has not yet been satisfactorily worked out. 

Nervous system. — Nerves. — It is on these that conine and 
methylconine, the active principles of conium, chiefly act. Co- 
nine is much the more energetic. It powerfully depresses the 
functional activity of all the motor nerves in the body. 
This depression begins at their periphery, and gradually ascends 
till the whole nerve, from the periphery to the spinal cord, is 
incapable of responding to stimuli. This leads to paralysis of 
all the muscles of the body as far as voluntary and reflex motion 
are concerned, but they themselves are unaffected, retaining their 
irritability to local stimuli. The sensory nerves are not im- 
plicated unless the dose is very large ; then their conducting 
power is slightly impaired. 

Spinal cord. — This remains uninfluenced till quite late; then, 
if poisonous doses have been given, the function of its motor 
cells is feebly depressed, as is also that of the respiratory center 
in the medulla. As methylconine inhibits the reflex activity of 
the spinal cord earlier than conine, the exact period at which 
this effect comes on varies with different preparations. 

Brain. — Except for the respiratory center the whole of the 
brain is unaffected by conine. Consciousness is preserved until 
the stage of asphyxia. 

Eye. — Conine, when dropped into the eye, causes immediate 
contraction of the pupil reflexly from the conjunctival irritation. 
But soon the pupil dilates, and accommodation is paralyzed; 
the same usually happens when the drug is given internally. Pro- 
bably these results are owing to paralysis of the terminal portions 
of the third nerve, for well-marked ptosis, which is due to this 
cause, is present. 

Respiratio7i. — Owing to the profound paralysis of all the 
motor nerves, and the later depression of the respiratory center 



3IO ORGANIC MATERIA MEDIC A. 

and motor part of the cord, death takes place from enfeeblement 
of respiration and consequent asphyxia. 

Conine is excreted unchanged, chiefly in the urine. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Conium has been applied to painful ulcers and 
sores, but it is, for the reasons already given, doubtful whether it 
produces any good effect. It has also been employed for myalgia 
and rheumatism, but it is quite useless. 

Internal. — Conium is rarely given as a medicine for (a) the 
amount of conine extracted by any preparation is very variable ; 
(£) the amount of methylconine present is also very uncertain ; 
(V) conine is very volatile; (d) it is unstable, light and air mak- 
ing it inert. For these reasons it is probable that often the 
pharmacopoeial preparations contain no conine at all. Ounces 
of the succus, (which is the expressed juice of the leaves and 
young branches to which 25 per cent, of alcohol has been added), 
and which is believed to be the most reliable preparation, have 
frequently been swallowed without producing any effects. The 
preparations of the fruit are said by some to be more reliable than 
those of the leaves. Conium has been given in spasmodic dis- 
eases, as whooping-cough, in chorea, tetanus, asthma, and epilepsy, 
but in all it does little or no good. 

Toxicology. 

The symptoms produced by a poisonous dose are in strict accordance with 
the physiological action. The sufferer feels his legs to be heavy ; on attempting 
to walk he staggers, and finds he can hardly move them, and finally he has to 
lie down because he has no power over them. The arms become powerless, 
and lie motionless at his side. There is ptosis, and dimness of vision from 
paralysis of accommodation ; the eyes are fixed, the pupil is dilated. Swallow- 
ing becomes difficult. Respiration is labored, the voice is lost, and death takes 
place from asphyxia. Post mortem. — The organs are found congested with 
venous blood. 

Treatment. — Emetics (p. 76) and wash out the stomach. Give tannic 
acid and again wash it out. Stimulants subcutaneously. Warmth to the feet. 
Artificial respiration. 



TOBACCO. 311 

TABACUM. 

TABACI FOLIA. — Leaf Tobacco. The commercial dried leaves of 
Nicotiana Tabacum (Nat Ord. Solanacece). America. 

Characters. — Large, up to 20 or more in. long, ovate, acute, entire? 
brown, brittle, glandular, hairy. Odor characteristic. Taste nauseous, bitter, 
acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Nicotine, C 10 H U N 2 (2 to 8 
per cent.). A colorless, volatile, oily alkaloid, smelling and tasting like tobacco 
leaves, darkening with age. Soluble in water, more so in alcohol and 
ether. Turkish tobacco contains hardly any. (2) Nicotianin, a camphor. The 
existence of this body has been denied. (3) Salts and flavoring agents. 

Nicotine is decomposed by heat, consequently tobacco smoke contains 
none, but consists of small quantities of various pyridine compounds, as pyri- 
dine (C 5 H 5 N), picoline (C 5 H 7 N), lutidine (C 7 H 9 N), and colidine (C 8 H U N), 
and small amounts of hydrocyanic and acetic acids, creasote, sulphur, and 
carbon compounds. 

Action. 

Tobacco leaves, when taken internally, act entirely in virtue 
of their nicotine, which is one of the most powerful and 
rapid poisons known. 

External. — Nicotine is an antiseptic. 

Internal. — Gastro-iniestinal tract. — Nicotine in even minute 
doses (4- gr.) promptly produces symptoms of intense gastro- 
intestinal irritation. They are greatly increased salivary 
flow, burning pain in the mouth, oesophagus, and stomach, hor- 
rible nausea, quickly succeeded by vomiting and free purging. 
The marked characteristic of this gastro-intestinal irritation is the 
extreme collapse which accompanies it. Thus there are a 
rapid, very feeble pulse, intense muscular weakness, laborious 
respiration, partial loss of consciousness, occasional convulsions, 
icy extremities, and profound general collapse. A dose of nico- 
tine has been known to kill in three minutes. 

Circulation. — Nicotine disintegrates the red blood-corpuscles 
of freshly drawn blood, but has not this effect on living blood, 
although the spectrum of haemoglobin is altered, so that the 
corpuscles must be in some way affected. The action on the 
heart is obscure; the muscle itself is unaffected, but the rapid- 
running, feeble pulse shows that some part of the cardiac appa- 



312 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

ratus is powerfully influenced. The blood -pressure falls rapidly ; 
we are ignorant as to whether this is entirely due to the action 
of nicotine on the heart. 

Respiration. — This is paralyzed, how is not known. Death 
is partly due to asphyxia. 

Nervous system. — The cerebrum is probably very little affected 
by nicotine. The convulsions occasionally observed in man, and 
always in the frog, are due to spinal stimulation. All observers 
are agreed that ultimately the function of the motor nerves 
is entirely abolished. This explains the intense muscular 
weakness. Probably the sensory nerves, and certainly the muscles, 
escape. 

Eye. — A toxic dose taken internally, or the local application 
of nicotine to the eye, contracts the pupil. This will occur 
in excised eyes, and is therefore a local effect. It is most likely 
due both to sympathetic paralysis and irritation of the third nerve. 

Elimination. — Nicotine is probably eliminated in the urine, 
the secretion of which it increases. 

Therapeutics. 

Tobacco is never used therapeutically. Formerly it was em- 
ployed in the form of an enema of the leaves to relax muscular 
spasm, so as to facilitate the reduction of dislocations. This 
enema was also sometimes given as a purgative. 

Tobacco smoking, in those who are unaccustomed to it, pro- 
duces, to a greater or less degree, the symptoms of gastrointes- 
tinal irritation and collapse just mentioned. Even in those who 
are used to it the smoke may produce catarrah of the pharynx. 
Some persons find smoking after breakfast assists the daily action 
of the bowels. With many people it has an obscure effect, espe- 
cially among those who lead sedentary lives, in stimulating the brain 
and producing a peaceable, calm state of mind. Over-indulgence 
in it may lead to loss of appetite and atrophy of the optic nerve. 

ERYTHROXYLON. 

COCA. — Cuca. The leaves of Erythroxylon Coca (Nat. Ord. Erythroxy- 
lacea). South America. 



ERYTHROXYLON. 3 1 3 

Characters. — Shortly stalked, oval or lanceolate; 2 to 3 inches long; 
entire, usually blunt and emarginate, smooth, midrib prominent, numerous faint 
anastomosing veins, and a curved line either side of the midrib. Green above, 
paler underneath. Faint tea-like odor, bitter taste. 

Composition. — It contains three alkaloids, viz., (1) cocaine, 0.2 per cent.; 
(2) ecgonine; (3) hygrine, which is aromatic. Also (4) coca tannin and (5 ) 
coca wax. Different specimens vary very much in strength of cocaine. Fresh 
specimens are stronger than those that have been kept. v 

Dose, 1 to 4 dr. of the leaves infused in hot water. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Erythroxyli Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion in diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Cocaine (see Appendix) has no action on the 
unbroken skin, but if injected subcutaneously or applied to 
mucous membranes — as, for example, those of the eye, nose, 
mouth, rectum, vagina — it produces complete local anaes- 
thesia, so that small operations can be performed without the 
patient feeling them. A 5 or 10 per cent, solution of the 
hydrochlorate is strong enough to thus paralyze the sensory 
nerves. Much larger doses must be applied to motor nerves to 
paralyze them. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestlnal tract. — When cocaine is taken 
internally, the gastric mucous membrane experiences its anaes- 
thetic influence. Therefore the sensation of hunger is deadened, 
and persons taking cocaine can go a long time without feeling 
the want of food ; but the drug is not a food, for the body rap- 
idly wastes. Because of its local anaesthetic effect it sometimes 
stops vomiting. Very large doses, by paralyzing the intestines, 
lead to constipation. 

Circulation. — Probably cocaine has little direct effect upon 
the circulation, but the vagus is somewhat depressed, and there- 
fore the pulse quickens ; larger doses slow it from stimulation of 
the vagus. 

Respiration. — It acts upon the respiratory center, first stimu- 
27 



3 1 4 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

lating it, so that the rapidity and depth of respiration are in- 
creased ; but soon depression of the center follows, the respira- 
tory movements become feeble, and death takes place from 
asphyxia. 

Nervous System. — Cerebrum. — Moderate doses greatly in- 
crease the bodily and mental power, and give a sense of 
calm and happiness. This greater physical energy renders pos- 
sible the performance of long, exhausting muscular feats. For 
this, and for the extreme sense of peace produced, coca leaves 
mixed with clay or ashes are chewed by thousands of the inhab- 
itants of Peru and the neighboring countries. It is said that 
forty million pounds of the leaves are annually harvested. An 
excessive indulgence in the habit of coca chewing leads to indi- 
gestion, extreme emaciation, insomnia and enfeeblemeut of in- 
tellect. In animals coca causes cerebral convulsions. 

Spinal cord. — The effect of cocaine on this is obscure. Large 
doses are depressant. The action on nerves has been already 
mentioned. As a rule, muscles are unaffected. 

Eye. — When a solution of cocaine is dropped into the eye 
there is first a transitory contraction of the pupil. This is prob- 
ably due to reflex action, and soon it gives way to wide dilata- 
tion. The maximum is attained in an hour or two. The nor- 
mal state is regained in from twelve to twenty-four hours. The 
dilated pupil is feebly responsive to light, and the dilatation is 
rapidly overcome by physostigmine. The ocular tension is 
slightly lowered. Accommodation is partially, but never com- 
pletely, paralyzed. These effects are due to irritation of the 
sympathetic, and as they are quickly produced by dropping 
the drug in the eye they are probably local. 

Temperature. — This may rise in cocaine poisoning. 

Kidneys. — Cocaine is most likely excreted by these organs. 

Its influence on the quality and composition of the urine is not 

known. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — A 5 to 10 per cent, solution of the hydrochlo- 
rate may be injected subcutaneously as a local anaesthetic when 



PILOCARPUS. 315 

any small operation has to be performed. Solutions, painted or 
dropped on, may be used for operations on the mouth, eye, ear, 
throat, teeth, vagina, urethra and rectum, and they may be ap- 
plied to any of these parts when they are very painful. Cocaine 
will relieve vaginal pruritus, and has been used locally applied in 
the nose in hay fever. Painful ulcers, fissures, &c, are beneficially 
treated with it. Ophthalmic surgeons employ it very largely to 
produce local anaesthesia of the eye for surgical operations. 

Internal. — Mouth. — A solution is useful for painting or spray- 
ing on to the throat previous to laryngeal examinations. Loz- 
enges of the hydrochlorate, containing 1-1 2 of a grain in each, are 
valuable for painful sore throat. 

Stomach. — Cocaine in some cases allays excessive vomiting, 
and has been said to cure sea-sickness. 

It is not often used in Europe as a medicine for its restorative 
effects; as already mentioned, it is not a food, and the good it 
does is only temporary. 

PILOCARPUS. Synonym. — Jaborandi. The leaflets of Pilocarpus 
pennatifolius (Nat. Ord. Rutacece). Brazil. 

Characters. — Leaflets very shortly stalked, about 4 in. long ; oval-oblong 
or oblong-lanceolate, unequal at base ; obtuse and emarginate ; slightly revolute 
and entire at the margins ; coriaceous. Upper surface glabrous, dull green ; 
under surface paler, often hairy, with prominent midrib and pellucid dots. 
Odor when bruised, aromatic. Taste on chewing, slightly bitter and aromatic at 
first, subsequently pungent, and increasing the flow of saliva. 

Impurities. — Leaves of species of Piper, not oval-oblong. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A liquid, colorless, alka- 
loid, pilocarpine (C n H 16 N 2 2 ), ^ to I per cent. (2) Jaborine, an alkaloid 
resembling in its physiological action atropine, and therefore antagonistic to 
pilocarpine. (3) A volatile oil. (4) A peculiar acid. These active principles 
are soluble in alcohol, but only imperfectly so in water. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Pilocarpi Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
in diluted alcohol ; evaporation. 
Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

PILOCARPINE HYDROCHLORAS.— Hydrochlorate of Pilocar- 
pine. C n H 16 N 2 2 ,H CI. 



31 6 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Source. — Obtained by shaking the extract of pilocarpus with chloroform 
and an alkali, evaporating, neutralizing with hydrochloric acid, and purifying 
by re -crystallization. 

Characters. — Minute white crystals, deliquescent, odorless, having a 
faintly bitter taste and neutral reaction. Solubility. — Very soluble in water and 
in alcohol. 

Dose, yi to % gr. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Gastrointestinal tract. — Pilocarpine is very 
quickly absorbed, and soon produces a great increase in the 
amount of salivary secretion. The mouth seems warm, 
and there may be a feeling of tenderness about the salivary 
glands. The saliva contains an abundance of salts and ptyalin, 
and can convert starch into sugar. Its increase is due to a direct 
stimulation of the filaments of the chorda tympani and other 
nerves which end in the cells of the salivary glands, so that stimu- 
lation of these nerves can add very little to the flow produced 
by the drug — in fact, not more than can be accounted for by 
vascular alterations. This action is antagonized immediately by 
belladonna, as that paralyzes the endings of these nerves. To a 
slight extent pilocarpine excites the secretion of the gastric juice 
and intestinal fluid. The unstriped muscle of the stomach and 
intestine is stimulated, and thus the drug may purge. The bile 
is unaffected. Large doses, especially of jaborandi, may produce 
vomiting. 

Circulation. — Pilocarpine has no effect on the blood, but it is 
a cardiac depressant. The pulse-rate, it is true, may be, and 
in the human being always is, a little accelerated at first, but 
soon both it and the blood-pressure fall. This slowing of the 
pulse is at once set aside by atropine, but is not prevented by sec- 
tion of the vagus, therefore pilocarpine acts on the heart itself, 
probably stimulating the terminations of the vagus. The blood- 
vessels are at first dilated. 

Respiration. — The drug has no effect on this. The amount 
of bronchial secretion is increased. 

Skin. — Jaborandi, through its alkaloid pilocarpine, produces 



PILOCARPUS 31 7 

a very profuse secretion of sweat. It is the most powerful 
diaphoretic drug we have. A single dose may cause the flow of 
fifteen fluid ounces of sweat. It is said that the proportion of 
urea and chlorides in the sweat is greatly increased. This pro- 
fuse diaphoresis is due to the action of the pilocarpine on the cells 
of the sweat-glands, or the terminations of the nerves in them, 
and is stopped by atropine. The skin may flush, but this is not 
the cause of the diaphoresis. Under a course of jaborandi 
the hair grows more actively, but it becomes very coarse and 
dark. 

Kidneys. — If the sweating is profuse the secretion of urine is 
lessened, but repeated small doses of pilocarpine lead to slight 
diuresis. It is excreted unchanged in the urine. 

lemperature. — There may be a slight rise at first, but soon 
the temperature falls considerably. This is probably due in large 
part to the evaporation of the perspiration. 

Eye. — Whether applied locally to the eye or given internally, 
pilocarpine produces great contraction of the pupil, due to 
stimulation of the ends of the third nerve in the eye, and this is 
antagonized by atropine. It also causes increased tension of the 
eyeball, and an approximation of the near and far points of 
distinct vision. 

Other actions. — It stimulates the uterus, and has in very rare 
cases produced abortion. It increases the secretion of milk, of 
tears, of nasal mucus, and, according to some authors, that of 
cerumen. It causes the spleen and bladder to contract. 

It will be noticed that it has two main actions. (1) It stim- 
ulates the secretions, viz. those of the salivary glands, stomach, 
intestines, skin, kidney, bronchial mucous membrane, nose, 
lachrymal glands, and ear. In those that have been investigated, 
and probably in all, it acts locally. It has not been decided in 
every case, whether the cells of the glands or the nerve termina- 
tions in them are affected. (2) It stimulates the nerve termina- 
tions of involuntary muscles, viz. in the eye, the intestines, the 
stomach, the uterus, the spleen, the heart, the bladder, and it 
acts on the muscular coat of the vessels, although these, if 



318 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

affected, are usually dilated. The most important effects are the 
diaphoresis, the salivation, and the myosis. It is consequently 
antagonistic in its action to belladonna. Children bear large 
doses of it well. Pilocarpine is much more used than jaborandi, 
as it is more prompt and more certain in its action, and is less 
likely to cause indigestion. 

Jaborine has an action similar to that of atropine ; the 
amount of it in jaborandi varies, hence the varying effects of 
different specimens of the leaves, but there is never enough to 
totally counteract the pilocarpine. 

Therapeutics. 
Pilocarpine has been employed for many conditions, but its 
great use is as a diaphoretic in Bright's disease. For this purpose 
^ of a grain or more of the hydrochlorate is injected subcu- 
taneously in the evening. The sweating is aided by wrapping 
the patient, who should be naked, in several warm blankets, and 
putting a hot water bottle to his feet. After the sweating has 
ceased, he should be dried and left in a dry blanket. As it is 
such a powerful cardiac depressant, it must be given with great 
caution when the heart is diseased. Occasionally it is employed 
locally in affections of the eye. Patients suffering from deafness 
due to disease of the auditory nerve or its terminations are some- 
times relieved by pilocarpine. Injected subcutaneously it has 
been given successfully as an antidote to belladonna poisoning. 



GROUP II. 

Vegetable Drugs, whose Main Action is on the Heart. 

Class I. — The digitalis group, decreasing the frequency and increasing the 
force of the beat of the heart : 

Digitalis. Squill. 

Class II. — The aconite group, decreasing the frequency and decreasing 
the force of the beat of the heart : 

Aconite. Veratrum Viride. 



DIGITALIS. 319 



DIGITALIS. 



DIGITALIS. — Foxglove. The leaves of Digitalis purpurea (Nat. 
Ord. Scrophulariacece), the purple foxglove. Collected from wild British 
plants of the second year's growth when about two-thirds of the flowers are 
expanded, and carefully dried. 

Characters. — 4 — 12 in. long, up to 6 in. broad, with a winged petiole; 
ovate, subacute, crenate ; somewhat rugose ; hairy, dull green above, densely 
pubescent and paler beneath. Odor faint, agreeable, tea-like. Taste very bitter, 
unpleasant. Rese??ibling digitalis leaves. — -Matico leaves, which are more 
deeply reticulated. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Digitoxin, a glucoside, 
the most active principle, very poisonous, cumulative. Insoluble in water, 
sparingly in alcohol and in ether. (2) Digitalin, a crystalline glucoside in- 
soluble in water. (3) Digitalein, an amorphous glucoside, soluble in water, and 
therefore suitable for hypodermic injections ; dose hypodermically T i^ gr., said 
to be non-cumulative. These three glucosides are said to represent the cardiac 
stimulating action of the drug. (4) Digitonin, a glucoside closely allied both 
chemically and physiologically to, and perhaps identical with, the saponin of 
senega (q. v.). This is a cardiac depressant, and is therefore antagonistic 
to the other three glucosides. (5) Digitin, a substance devoid of physiological 
action. All these five bodies are non- nitrogenous. (6) Two acids, digitalic 
and antirrhinic. (7) Other usual constituents of plants, as tannin, volatile oil, 
coloring matter, starch, sugar, gum, salts. It will be noticed that digitalis 
contains no alkaloids. 

The two following substances are met with in commerce : (A) Homolle's 
digitalin (same as Quevenne's digitalin), an amorphous yellowish-white powder 
or small scales, intensely bitter, inodorous, but irritating to the nostrils. Con- 
sists chiefly of digitalin with a little digitoxin. Possesses the action of the leaves. 
Granules of it are much used in France ; each usually contains -J3- of a grain, 
which is equal to 1)4 g r - °f tne powdered leaves. 

(B) Nativelle's digitalin : light white crystalline tufts of needles, very 
bitter. Soluble in chloroform and in alcohol, not in water or ether. It 
consists very largely of digitoxin, and is cumulative. Dose, g 1 ^ to -^ gr. in 
a pill. 

Incompatibles. — Per-salts of iron, acetate of lead, cinchona. 

Dose, )4 to 3 S T ' °f tne powdered leaves. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Digitalis. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol, evaporation with addition of sugar of milk. 
Dose, % to 1 gr. 



320 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Extractum Digitalis. — By maceration and percolation in 
alcohol and water, distil off the alcohol. Evaporation and addition 
of five per cent, of glycerine. 

Dose, )( to i gr. 

3. Extractum Digitalis Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion in alcohol and water and evaporation. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 3 m. 

4. Infusum Digitalis.— Powder, 3 ; cinnamon, 3; boiling water, 
185; alcohol, 15; to make 100 parts. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. (note that it is drachms, not ounces). 

5. Tinctura Digitalis. — Recently dried and in powder, 15 ; alcohol 
to 100. By maceration and percolation. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

As the proportion of the many constituents varies in the preparations, some 
prefer always to give the powdered leaves. The infusion contains digitonin and 
not much digitoxin, the tincture contains both digitalin and digitoxin. 

Action. 

External. — The leaves are slightly irritating, but it is doubt- 
ful whether any of their constituents can be absorbed by the 
skin. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Digitalis is a mild 
gastro-intestinal irritant, and even moderate doses cause 
vomiting and diarrhoea in some people. 

Blood. — It is rapidly absorbed; it is not known to affect the 
blood. 

Heart. — The first action of digitalis is to slow the beat of 
the heart, the diastole is prolonged, the duration of the 
systole is not altered, but its force is greatly increased, so 
much so that after large doses the heart may, in animals, be 
seen to become pale, because every drop of blood is squeezed 
out of it. The pulse is consequently increased in force, but 
retarded. If before the drug was given the heart was beating 
irregularly, it generally becomes regular. If a larger dose is 
given, it is observed that the intense systolic contraction is not 
uniform all over the organ. The auricles and ventricles do not 
beat synchronously; and even one portion — as the apex, for 
example — of the ventricle may remain spasmodically contracted 



DIGITALIS. 321 

during the diastole of the rest of the ventricle. This causes the 
heart to assume hour-glass and other curious shapes. Finally it 
is arrested in systole, and is firmly contracted, quite pale, and 
unable to respond to any mechanical or electrical stimuli. This 
account is true for all animals, except that sometimes in dogs 
and men the heart finally stops in diastole. 

That these phenomena are chiefly due to the direct action 
of the drug on the cardiac muscles is shown by the fact that 
digitalis not only acts when applied locally to the heart, but will 
even increase the force of the contraction, when applied to the 
isolated apex in which it is believed no nerves exist. But the 
inhibitory activity of the cardiac peripheral end of the vagus is 
increased ; for a mild stimulation of the vagi, which, before the 
drug was given, had no effect, will after the drug is given stop 
the heart, and in warm-blooded animals digitalis does not very 
markedly retard the pulse, if the vagi have been cut, although it 
increases the force of the cardiac beat. Possibly to a slight extent 
the vagus centre in the medulla is stimulated, but the main action 
of digitalis is to excite the cardiac muscle itself and the cardiac 
inhibitory terminations of the vagus. Digitalis has been thought 
to affect the ganglia of the heart, but there is no satisfactory 
evidence of this. 

It has been proved that even small doses actually increase 
the amount of work done by the heart in a given time. 

Vessels. — Moderate doses of digitalis produce a great rise 
in the blood-pressure. This is partly due to the greater 
cardiac force, but not entirely, for in the web of the frog's foot 
and the rabbit's mesentery the arterioles have been observed to 
contract vigorously when digitalis has been given. As this still 
occurs in arterioles quite separated from the body, and through 
which an artificial circulation of blood containing digitalis is 
carried on, it is clear that the drug contracts the arterioles by 
direct action on their muscular coat. But as the con- 
traction is greater in an intact animal than in one whose spinal 
cord is destroyed, or in whom the nerves going to the part 
experimented upon are divided, it is clear that digitalis also 
28 



322 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

stimulates the medullary and spinal vaso-motor centers. 
With toxic doses the irritation of the centers and of the muscular 
coat of the arterioles passes on to depression, and the blood- 
pressure falls. 

Kidney. — The effect of digitalis on the kidney is very uncer- 
tain. Most experimenters have found that in health it is diuretic, 
but some have not, and the same discrepancy in its action on the 
kidney exists in patients with heart disease, but generally in these 
cases it is a diuretic. The reasons for these discrepancies are 
that if the arterial vessels are, like the rest of the vessels in the 
body, tightly contracted by the drug, very little blood will come 
to the kidney, and very little urine will be secreted ; but if the 
digitalis does not constrict the renal vessels markedly, the in- 
creased cardiac force and the general rise of blood-pressure will 
send more blood through the kidney and more urine will be 
secreted. Some observers state that digitalin and digi toxin have 
a special effect in relaxing the vessels of the kidney. If this is 
so, the question is still more complicated, for then the diuretic 
influence of digitalis will depend largely upon the particular 
preparation which is given. The truth probably is, that with a 
small dose of digitalis or, in the first stage of a large one, the 
vessels of the kidney, like those of the rest of the body are con-" 
tracted, and the flow of urine is diminished ; but the renal 
arterioles, being the first in the body to suffer from the subse- 
quent arterial relaxation, dilate while the general blood-pressure 
is still high, and then digitalis acts as a powerful diuretic. 

We have no certain knowledge of the effect of digitalis on 
the constitution of the urine. 

Te?7iperatnre, — Moderate doses have no influence on the tem- 
perature, but toxic doses cause it to fall even in health. The 
reason of this is unknown. 

Respiration. — This is unaffected by digitalis unless poisonous 
doses have been given, when it begins to fail from the imperfect 
circulation through the respiratory mechanism. 

Nervous system and muscles. — Medicinal doses have no 
marked influence. Large doses will, because of the alterations 



DIGITALIS. 323 

in the cerebral circulation, cause headache, giddiness, and dis- 
turbances of sight and hearing. In many cases of poisoning all 
objects have appeared blue. 

The reflex activity of the cord and motor nerves is depressed 
independently of the action on the circulation; sensory nerves 
are unaffected. Digitalis directly paralyzes muscles if given in 
toxic doses. 

Uterus. — This organ is said to be stimulated to contract by 

digitalis. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Digitalis is sometimes used externally, in the 
form of a poultice made from the leaves, and placed over the 
loins in cases of renal congestion. 

Internal. — It is one of the most valuable drugs we have. 
It is chiefly given in cases of cardiac disorder. 

Mitral regurgitation. — If in any case of this variety of heart 
disease the organ is beating feebly, irregularly, and rapidly, 
digitalis in moderate doses will probably strengthen, regulate, 
and slow the beat. It will cause the left ventricle to contract 
more forcibly and to act synchronously in all its parts ; hence 
the mitral flaps will be better approximated, the regurgitation 
will be less, and more blood will be sent on into the arterial cir- 
culation. The prolonged diastole will also be of great advantage, 
for it will allow more time for the blood to flow from the dilated 
auricle, and from the right side of the heart and venous system 
generally, into the left ventricle. In mitral regurgitation, as is 
well known, venous engorgement and oedema of the lungs, of the 
right side of the heart, of the liver, the kidneys, and subcutaneous 
tissues is very common. Digitalis, by improving the venous flow 
towards the heart, will ameliorate all these symptoms. It might 
be supposed that by constricting all the peripheral arterioles it 
would impede the arterial flow, because the heart will have to 
contract against a greater peripheral resistance, but this disad- 
vantage is never enough to seriously hamper the increased cardiac 
power; and it must be remembered that it is a great advantage 
to the circulation to have a proper peripheral arterial resistance, 



324 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

for without that, the elastic coat of the arteries cannot aid the 
arterial flow. If, as it usually does in these cases, digitalis acts 
as a diuretic, this will be of great value in removing the oedema, 
and in causing the scanty high-colored urine to become pale and 
abundant. The improvement in the circulation relieves the 
cardiac pain and distress which so commonly accompany mitral 
regurgitation, the lividity passes off, the dyspnoea decreases, and 
usually in a day or two a wonderful improvement in the patient's 
condition takes place. The more any case of mitral regurgita- 
tion deviates from the above oedematous type, the less good, as 
a rule, will digitalis do. Thus cases, in which there is much pain 
and distress and but little regurgitation, are not so often benefited, 
although even of such cases, many are improved. Sometimes the 
vomiting caused by digitalis prohibits its use. 

Mitral constriction. — In this condition it is obvious that it 
will be a great advantage to lengthen the diastole, for then there 
will be a greater chance that the diastole will be long enough to 
allow the normal amount of blood to pass through the constricted 
orifice. In proportion as this end is attained, the oedema, lividity, 
and other signs of backward venous congestion will be relieved. 
The increased force of the auricular contraction caused by digi- 
talis will help in the same direction, and if it induces diuresis 
this is very valuable in aiding the reduction of the oedema. 

Disease of the tricuspid valve. — In both tricuspid constriction 
and tricuspid regurgitation, digitalis will be beneficial in the same 
way as in similar affections of the mitral valve. 

Aortic regurgitation. — As a rule digitalis is harmful, for by 
prolonging the diastole more time is allowed for the blood to flow 
back through the imperfectly closed aortic orifice, and hence 
there is great danger of fatal syncope. The drug should only be 
given in cases of aortic regurgitation when the heart is very rapid, 
or when there is evidence that not much blood regurgitates, or 
when there are reasons, such as the coincident presence of aortic 
obstruction, for wishing to strengthen and regulate the contrac- 
tion. The dose must be small and the effects must be carefully 
watched. 



DIGITALIS. 325 

Aortic constriction. — This, unfortunately, is usually accom- 
panied by aortic regurgitation ; but sometimes when it is wished 
to increase the force of the beat, and so to drive more blood 
through the constricted aortic orifice, digitalis is useful, or when, 
as a result of the obstruction, mitral dilatation and consequent 
regurgitation, with much pulmonary and venous engorgement, 
have set in. Many cases of pure aortic obstruction do not re- 
quire drugs, for the heart hypertrophies sufficiently to overcome 
the obstruction. 

Bright 's disease. — In cases of contracted granular kidney in 
which the cardiac hypertrophy has been unable to overcome the 
peripheral resistance, and consequently the left ventricle and with 
it the auriculo-ventricular orifice has dilated, and mitral regurgi- 
tation has therefore ensued, digitalis may be of service for the 
reasons given on p. 323. A diuretic pill, often used for this con- 
dition, consists of calomel, digitalis leaves, and squill, a grain of 
each, made up with extract of henbane. Otherwise in chronic 
Bright' s disease digitalis is not a suitable diuretic, for it raises the 
tension of the pulse, which is already high. In the earlier stages 
of acute Bright' s disease it has been given as a diuretic, but it is 
questionable whether it is right to dilate the vessels of an acutely 
inflamed organ ; further, digitalis is always, unless the heart is 
diseased, an uncertain diuretic, and even in the early stage of 
acute Bright' s disease the arterial tension is somewhat raised. In 
chronic tubal nephritis uncomplicated by cardiac disease it is 
worse than useless, for it has no effect on the renal cells, and i^ 
raises the blood-pressure. 

Diseases of the cardiac muscle. — If the heart be fatty, digi- 
talis does no good ; it is indeed said that there is danger of rup- 
ture of some of the softened fatty fibres. The weakly acting 
heart that is met with after pericarditis, typhoid fever, scarlet 
fever, rheumatism, and other acute diseases, even if no valvular 
defects are present, is markedly strengthened by digitalis. Each 
contraction is more efficient, and the prolonged diastole allows 
more time for the muscle to rest. It is clear that in the course 
of twenty-four hours this additional repose, although but little in 



326 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

each cycle, will amount to a considerable time. Many men who 
have practised rowing or other hard exercise to excess, suffer from 
shortness of breath, and the apex of the heart is found to be a 
little outside the normal position, but there is no demonstrable 
valvular lesion. This condition, which also occurs in soldiers 
after a long campaign, is much benefited by digitalis. The dila- 
tation of the right side of the heart that so frequently accom- 
panies chronic disease of the lungs may be, but is not usually, 
improved by digitalis. 

Functional disease of the heart. — The irregular, palpitating 
beat, often seen apart from any organic disease, may be benefited 
markedly by digitalis ; but it must be remembered that this con- 
dition is commonly a result of indigestion, in which case the 
right treatment is, if possible, to cure the dyspepsia, and if 
digitalis is given at all, to do so cautiously, for it may excite in- 
digestion. The functional affections of the heart met with in 
highly neurotic subjects may be, but are not always benefited by 
digitalis. 

Exophthalmic goitre may improve under a long course of digi- 
talis, but generally this treatment fails. 

Hcemorrhage . — Although digitalis contracts the arterioles it is 
not often given as a haemostatic, for the increased blood-pressure 
may lead to greater haemorrhage, but it may be useful in the pul- 
monary haemorrhage, due to disease of the mitral valve. 

Alcoholism. — Moderate doses of digitalis have been said to be 
serviceable in chronic alcoholism on account of their stimulating 
effect on the circulation. Enormous doses have been given empi- 
rically in delirium tremens, but generally without any good result. 

Uterus. — Because of its power to contract the uterus, digitalis 
may be useful in menorrhagia. 

It is olten desirable to combine fluid preparations of digitalis 
with salts of iron, the resulting mixture, which is usually inky 
from the action of the iron on the tannin in the digitalis, can be 
clarified by the addition of a little dilute phosphoric acid. Be- 
cause of this difficulty the powdered digitalis leaves are often 
made into a pill with dried sulphate of iron. 



SQUILL. 327 

Antagonisms. 

Antagonism between digitalis and aconite. — Aconite is a cardiac poison, 
weakening instead of strengthening the beat ; it dilates the peripheral vessels, 
it lowers the blood-pressure, and after death the heart is always found in a 
condition of diastole. In all these points it is antagonistic to digitalis. The 
action of aconite is very rapid, that of digitalis very slow. Therefore these 
drugs are not practical antidotes to each other in poisoning. 

Scoparin is also physiologically antagonistic to digitalis. 

Digitalis is cumulative. Patients who have taken it for a long while 
sometimes suddenly show symptoms of poisoning without any increase in the 
dose. This is because, as the drug is not excreted by the kidneys as fast as it 
is absorbed, it accumulates in the body. 

SCILLA. 

SCILLA.— Squill. The sliced bulb of the Urginea Scilla (Nat. Ord., 
LiliacecB). Mediterranean coast. 

Characters. — In narrow segments, about ten inches long, slightly trans- 
lucent, yellowish- white or reddish, brittle and pulverizable when dry, flexible 
after exposure to damp air, inodorous, mucilaginous, bitter and acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are, — (i) Scillitoxin, the most 
active principle ; (2) Scillipiain, also active, and closely related to scillitoxin ; 
(3) Scillain or scittin, a bitter non-nitrogenous glucoside ; (4) Mucilage. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Acetum Scillae. — Squill, 10. Dilute acetic acid, by percola- 
tion, to 100 parts. 

Dose, 10 to 45 m. 

2. Extractum Scillae Fluidum. — Squill in powder, by macera- 
tion and percolation with alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

3. Syrupus Scillae. — Acetum Scillae, 40; sugar, 60; water to 100. 
Dose, yi, to 1 fl. dr. 

4. Syrupus Scillae Compositus. Synonym. — Hive Syrup. (See 
Tartrate of Antimony and Potassium, p. 190.) 

5. Tinctura Scillae. — Squill, 15. By maceration and percolation 
with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

Action. 

Squill so closely resembles digitalis in its action that the 
account of that drug will apply to squill with the following addi- 



328 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

tions. Squill is a much more powerful gastro-intestinal 
irritant; vomiting and purging result from even moderate 
doses, and after death, if animals are killed with it, much gastro- 
enteritis is found. In the second place, some constituent of 
squill is excreted by the bronchial mucous membrane, and in 
passing through it irritates it. The vascularity and the amount 
of secretion are thereby increased. Squill is, therefore, a power- 
ful expectorant. Thirdly, squill in the course of its excretion 
through the kidneys stimulates them; it is, therefore, a more 
energetic diuretic than digitalis, and it may irritate the kid- 
neys excessively. 

Therapeutics. 

Because of its irritating properties squill is not given alone, 
but it is frequently combined with digitalis when that drug is 
administered for heart diseases or as a diuretic. A very favorite diu- 
retic pill is composed of powdered squill, powdered digitalis leaves 
and calomel, 1 grain of each, made up with some simple vehicle. 

Squill is much used as an expectorant. Here also it is always 
prescribed in combination; it is too irritating to the bronchial 
mucous membrane for it to be advisable to give it in acute bron- 
chitis; nor should it be chosen in phthisis, lest it should cause 
dyspepsia ; but it is valuable in chronic bronchitis if the secretion 
is scanty. 

Squill should not be given in acute Bright' s disease, for it is 
too irritating to the kidneys. 

ACONITUM. 

ACONITE. — The tuberous root of Aconitum Napellus (Nat. Ord., 
Ranunculacece), collected, in the winter or early spring before the leaves 
have appeared, from plants cultivated in Britain, or imported in a dried state 
from Germany. 

Characters. — Usually 2 to 3 in. long. Upper extremity, crowned with 
base of stem, is y 2 to ^ in. in diameter; conical, shriveled, shows bases of 
broken rootlets; dark brown externally, whitish internally. Has a central 
axis with rays. Cautiously chewed, produces, after some minutes, tingling and 
numbness. Resembles horseradish (q. v.). 

Composition. — The active principle is the very poisonous alkaloid (aco- 
nitine (see below). Other principles are, perhaps, pseudo-aconitine, napellin, 






ACONITE. 329 

nepallin, napallin, aconellin and others, combined with aconitic acid ; but our 
knowledge of them is unsatisfactory. 
Dose, y z to 2 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Aconiti. — Powdered aconite, 200; tartaric acid, 
2. By maceration in alcohol, percolation, evaporation, addition of sugar 
and milk to 100. 

Dose, ^toi gr. 

2. Extractum Aconiti. — Powdered aconite, 100; tartaric acid, I. 
By maceration and percolation with alcohol, with evaporation to 100 ; 
addition of 5 per cent, of glycerine. 

Dose, T V to X S r - 

3. Extractum Aconiti Fluidum. — Powdered aconite, 100; tar- 
taric acid, I. By maceration and percolation with alcohol, and evapora- 
tion to 100. 

Dose, J^ to 2 m. 

4. Tinctura Aconiti. — Powdered aconite, 400; tartaric acid, 4. 
By maceration and percolation with alcohol to 1 000. 

Dose, J^ to 5 m. It should be remembered that Fleming's tinc- 
ture of aconite, which is found in the shops, is nearly twice as strong as 
this. 

Action. 

External. — Applied to the skin, to a mucous membrane, 
or to a raw surface, aconite or its alkaloid first stimulates and 
then paralyzes the nerves of touch and temperature; it therefore 
causes first tingling, then numbness and local anaesthesia, 
which last some time. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Unless it is very dilute, 
mumbness and tingling are produced in the mouth. There are 
no other gastro-intestinal symptoms unless the dose is very large, 
when there may be vomiting. 

Heart. — The rate of the beat may be at first a little increased 
by aconite, but soon the pulse is very decidedly slowed, shortly 
after that, the force and tension become less. Finally the 
heart is arrested in diastole. It is certain that towards the end 
of its action aconite influences the heart itself, for it will retard 
the excised organ when applied directly to it. It is extremely 



330 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

probable that in the earlier stages the drug acts upon the cardiac 
nerves or their centers, but the details of such action are not 
known. The effect on the heart leads to a fall of blood- 
pressure, but whether this is partly due to an action on the 
vaso-motor system itself is undecided. 

Respiration, — The rate of respiration is slowed, expiration 
and the pause after it, are considerably prolonged. This is chiefly 
due to the action of aconite on the center in the medulla, but in 
part to the paralysis of the peripheral endings of the afferent 
vagal fibres. 

Nervous system. — The evidence is very conflicting, but it ap- 
pears clear that aconite, whether given internally or applied 
locally, depresses the activity of the peripheral terminations 
of the nerves; the nerves of common sensation and 
temperature are affected before the motor. Any pain that 
may be present is relieved. Later on, the paralysis of the 
motor nerves gives rise to muscular weakness. It is doubtful 
whether the cord is influenced. The brain is not. 

Te7nperature. — Aconite causes a febrile temperature to fall. 
The cause of this is not known. 

Skin. — Aconite is a mild diaphoretic ; in this case also we 
do not understand how it acts. Occasionally it produces an 
erythematous rash. 

Kidneys. — It is said to be a feeble diuretic, but its effect is 
very slight. We do not know the channel by which it is elimi- 
nated. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — As aconite produces local anaesthesia, it is ap- 
plied externally and often with great benefit in cases of neuralgia, 
especially facial neuralgia. Frequently it fails, and we cannot tell 
beforehand whether it will succeed. A small piece of the ointment 
(B. P., aconitine, 2; alcohol, 7; benzoinated lard, 100) maybe 
rubbed in till numbness is produced, but as this is a very expen- 
sive preparation it is usually better to paint on the liniment 
(which is in B. P. a 40 per cent, solution in alcohol, to which 



ACONITE. 33I 

2 per cent of camphor is added), with a camel' s-hair brush. The 
pain of chronic rheumatism is sometimes relieved by aconite. 

Internal. — It may be given internally for neuralgia, but it 
does not succeed nearly so well as when applied externally. It 
is not used internally as much as formerly, when it was admin- 
istered in almost every febrile disease, with the object of decreas- 
ing the force and tension of the pulse. Certainly it does this 
very effectually, and the only reason why it is not so popular at 
the present time is, that it is not now thought desirable to reduce 
the force and frequency of the heart in these diseases. Perhaps 
it is used too little, for many believe that the milder febrile 
diseases, such as tonsillitis, laryngitis, or a common cold, are 
distinctly benefited by aconite. In addition to retarding the 
pulse it increases perspiration and lowers the temperature. As 
large doses diminish the force of the heart, it is usually given in 
doses of two or three minims of the tincture every hour or so 
till the pulse falls to nearly normal ; for the same reason it is not 
advisable to use it for prolonged fevers, as typhoid, nor when the 
heart is diseased, except in the few cases in which there is suffi- 
cient compensative cardiac hypertrophy. In such cardiac cases 
it is sometimes useful to slow the pulse, even when there is no 
fever. It will occasionally relieve the pain of aneurism. A 
common practice was to combine with it one or two drops of 
Vinum Antimonii, as that has much the same action on the 
heart. Formerly it was much used in surgery if it was feared 
that inflammation might set in after injuries. 

Toxicology. 

The symptoms come on quickly ; in a few minutes there is a severe burn- 
ing, tingling, sensation in the mouth, followed by numbness. Vomiting begins 
in an hour or so, and is very severe. There is an intense abdominal burning 
sensation. The skin is cold and clammy. Numbness and tingling with a sense 
of formication of the whole skin, trouble the patient very much. The pupils 
are dilated, the eyes fixed and staring. The muscles become very feeble, hence 
he staggers. The pulse is small, weak, and irregular. There is difficulty of 
respiration. Death takes place from asphyxia, or in some cases from syncope. 
He is often conscious to the last. Post 7nortem. — The usual signs of death from 
asphyxia are seen. 



$$2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDIC A. 

Treatment. — Wash out the stomach promptly, give emetics (p. 76). In- 
ject stimulants, as ether or brandy, subcutaneously ; apply warmth. Atropine 
and the tincture of digitalis should be given subcutaneously. 

VERATRUM VIRIDE. 

VERATRUM VIRIDE.— American Hellebore. The rootlets and 
ihizome of Veratrum viride (Nat. Ord. Melanthacece), United States. 

Characters. — Entire or divided transversely or longitudinally, with or 
without attached rootlets. If entire, I, 2, or more in. long, ^ in. in diameter; 
erect, obconical, obtuse or truncated at the apex; dark brown externally, whitish 
within. Often has remains of leaves at upper end, and gives off on all sides 
numerous shrivelled yellowish-brown rootlets, several inches long, or the latter 
are detached and mixed with it ; the rhizome is then marked with scars. Odor 
none, but it excitts sneezing when powdered. Taste bitter, very acid. Resem- 
bling Veratrum. — Valerian, serpentary, arnica, but veratrum has thicker root- 
lets, and no odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Jervine, an alkaloid. 
(2) Pseudo-jervine, an alkaloid. (3) Cevadine, an alkaloid. (4) Traces of 
three other alkaloids, viz., rubijervine, veratrine, and veratralline. (5) Resin. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Veratri Viridis Fluidum. — Powdered veratrum 
viride macerated and percolated with alcohol, and evaporated. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

2. Tinctura Veratri Viridis. — Veratrum viride in powder, 50 ; 
by maceration and percolation in alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

This tincture must be distinguished from Norwood's Tincture of Veratrum 
Viride, of which the dose is 5 m., gradually increased. 

Action. 

The action of veratum viride is very complex, as it contains 
so many alkaloids, but experiments have only been made on two 
active principles. These are jervine, and a substance, vera- 
troidine, which further analysis shows to consist chiefly of rubi- 
jervine, resin, and, perhaps, some other bodies. Jervine, 
veratroidine, and veratrum viride will be considered separately. 

Jervine. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — When administered in- 
ternally this substance produces profuse salivation, but neither 
vomiting nor purging. 



VERATRUM VIRIDE. 333 

Circulation. — The pulse is markedly lessened in frequency 
if the animal is quiet, but often the convulsions produced by the 
jervine cause a rapid pulse. The force of the cardiac beat is not 
at first altered. The blood-pressure falls at once, and con- 
tinues to fall till death. Experiments made by excluding dif- 
ferent parts show that these effects are produced by a powerful 
direct depressant effect on the cardiac muscle itself, 
and that the vaso-motor nerve-centers are powerfully 
paralyzed. 

Respiration. — This is profoundly depressed, and death takes 
place from asphyxia. 

Nervous System. — Early in the case there is muscular 
weakness, and this becomes more and more marked, so that 
the animal cannot stand, and reflex action is abolished. Yet, 
weak as these muscles are, they are soon violently convulsed, 
and it is found that jervine produces these apparently contrary 
effects by energetically stimulating the cerebral motor centers, but 
at the same time paralyzing the anterior cornual cells of the 
spinal cord, although not sufficiently to prevent the very strong 
impulses from the cerebral centers reaching the muscles and 
causing convulsions. The muscles themselves, and the motor 
and sensory nerves, are not affected ; or if they are, they are de- 
pressed a little, just before death. Consciousness and the pupils 
are uninfluenced. 

Veratroidine. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — This substance 
always produces vomiting and sometimes purging. 

Circulation. — At first it lessens the pulse-rate because it 
stimulates the pneumogastrics, consequently the blood-pressure 
falls, and if artificial respiration is kept up these effects continue 
till, if very large doses have been given, the stimulation of the 
vagi passes into paralysis and then the pulse rises in frequency. 
Veratroidine probably has no action on the vaso-motor centers. 
Its influence on the respiratory centers is so intense that if arti- 
ficial respiration is not maintained, the effects of the asphyxia so 
mask those of the drug on the vagi, that the blood-pressure rises, 
and the pulse becomes rapid. 



334 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Respiration. — The function of respiratory centers is powerfully 
depressed, the animal soon becomes asphyxiated and dies. 

Nervous system. — The action is the same as that of jervine. 

Veratrum Viride. — The symptoms produced by this drug 
in man are as follows. They are easily explained by the com- 
bined actions of jervine and veratroidine :— The frequency and 
force of the pulse are profoundly depressed. There may be 
severe nausea and vomiting. After larger doses the pulse be- 
comes very feeble and uneasy, there is difficulty of respiration 
and intense muscular weakness. Convulsions are not common 
in man. The temperature may fall several degrees. 

Therapeutics. 
It is the opinion of most authorities that veratrum viride 
should be prescribed with great caution as it is such a powerful 
poison. It has been given as a cardiac depressant, but antimony 
and aconite are much safer. Some have, however, claimed that 
it is a better cardiac depressant than aconite, because the vomit- 
ing it induces quickly indicates that too large a dose has been 
administered ; but if the pulse is carefully watched too much 
aconite need not be given, and the vomiting itself is objectionable. 

VERATRINA. 

VERATRUM SABADILLA.— Cevadilla. Not officinal. The dried 
ripe seeds of Asagrcea officinalis (Nat. Ord. Mela?ttkacea) i sometimes mixed 
with their pericarps. Mexico. 

Characters. — % in., or less, long, narrow, fusiform, with a membranous 
wing above ; compressed, shining, wrinkled, blackish-brown. Odor none, but 
when powdered produces sneezing. Taste bitter, acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Veratrine, which is 
officinal (see below). (2) Cevadilline, an inactive alkaloid. (3) Cevadine, 
an inactive alkaloid. 

VERATRINA. — Veratrine, the active alkaloid or mixture of alkaloids 
of Asagrcea officinalis. It is usually not quite pure, because of slight admixtures 
of the other two alkaloids. 

Source. — (1) Macerate Asagrcea officinalis with boiling water for twenty- 
four hours. (2) Dry it and separate the seeds from the capsules, and grind 
them to powder. (3) Digest this with alcohol. (4) Pour the tincture thus 
produced into water to precipitate the resins. (5) Filter; from the filtrate pre* 



VERATRINA. 335 

cipitate the veratrine with ammonia. (6) Purify by hydrochloric acid, charcoal, 
reprecipitation, filtration, &c. Pure veratrine crystallizes in rhombic prisms. 
The pharmacopceial veratrine is not pure [see above). 

Characters. — A pale, gray, amorphous powder. Odor none, but very 
irritating to the nostrils. Taste very bitter and acrid. Solubility. — 1 in 6 of 
ether, I in 3 of alcohol, readily in dilute acids, very feebly in water. 

Dose, 3L to T V gr. in pill. 

P?'eftarations. 

1. Oleatum Veratrinae. — Veratrine, 2; oleic acid, 98. 

2. Unguentum Veratrinae. — Veratrine, 4; alcohol, 6; benzoin- 
ated lard, 96. 

Action. 

External. — Veratrine has no effect when applied to the un- 
broken skin, but it is a powerful irritant when rubbed in ; it 
then causes a feeling of warmth, followed by prickling, severe 
pain, and finally numbness. There is at the same time considera- 
ble hyperaemia. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Its irritant action is 
even more marked on mucous membranes than on the skin. In- 
halation of the minutest portion causes great irritation of the 
mucous membrane of the nose, violent sneezing, and a free 
discharge of mucus, which may be bloody. A speck on the 
tongue gives rise to burning pain and profuse salivation. On 
arriving at the stomach and intestine it produces great epigas- 
tric pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. 

Blood. — Veratrine is quickly absorbed. It is not known to 
affect the living blood, but it kills the white corpuscles in drawn 
blood. 

Heart. — It acts directly on the cardiac muscle as it does upon 
voluntary muscle : that is to say, the contractions of the heart 
become fewer, but each lasts a very long while until 
ultimately the heart stops in systole. It also acts on the vagus 
as on spinal nerves, the functional activity being first exalted, 
and this is partly the reason of the slowing of the heart ; after- 
wards the vagus is depressed, but this does not cause a quickening 
of the pulse because of the action of the veratrine on the cardiac 



336 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

muscle, but it may make the beat irregular. The blood -pressure 
at first rises from the increased force of the beat, but when the 
heart becomes very slow it falls. Possibly these effects are also, in 
part, owing to the action of the drug on the vaso-motor centers. 

Respiration — Small doses quicken respiration, large ones re- 
tard it, producing long pauses, and finally arresting it. These 
results are probably due at first to stimulation, and afterwards to 
paralysis, of the ends of the vagus in the lung, and to paralysis of 
the respiratory centers. The temperature is lowered. 

Nervous system. — The brain is unaffected, and probably 
veratrine has no influence on the spinal cord. Motor nerves 
are first excited and then paralyzed, and the same is true 
of sensory nerves and their endings, but here the primary 
stimulation is very marked, hence the pain produced by the local 
inunction of veratrine. 

Muscles. — The effect of veratrine is peculiar and characteris- 
tic. In animals to which it has been given, or in excised muscles 
to which it is applied, it is found that the period during which a 
single contraction lasts is enormously prolonged. If a 
tracing of the contraction be taken it will be seen that the latent 
period and the time of the ascent of the curve are unaltered, that 
the height is greatly increased and the descent is extraordinarily 
extended. This is a genuine lengthened contraction, which is 
neither rigor nor tetanus, but it almost exactly resembles the con- 
traction of the muscles met with in Thomsen's disease. This ef- 
fect of veratrine disappears if the muscle is cooled. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Veratrine as an oleate or ointment has been 
much used as an inunction for neuralgia, and sometimes it suc- 
ceeds admirably, generally in the same class of cases as are 
benefited by the local application of aconite. 

Internal. — It is rarely given internally, as it has such a power- 
ful and peculiar action on the heart. 



SENEGA. 337 



GROUP III. 

Vegetable Drugs employed for their Action on the Respiratory Organs, and 
not falling among Volatile Oils (q. v.). 

Senega, Sanguinaria, Pulsatilla, Ipecacuanha, Allium, 
Lobelia, Grindelia, Asclepias, Castanea, Inula. 

These are all gastro-intestinal irritants. Senega and ipecacuanha are both 
excreted by the bronchial mucuous membrane, which they irritate. Group II 
is connected with this group by senega, which acts on the heart like squill, and 
like it is excreted by the bronchial mucous membrane. 

SENEGA. 

SENEGA.— The root of Polygala Senega (Nat. Ord. Polygalacecz). 
From North America. 

Characters. — Upper end, an irregular knotty tuberosity with remains of 
small stems, tapering below into a tortuous keeled root, \ to % in. thick. Bark 
yellowish or brownish-gray, transversely cracked. Fracture short and brittle. 
Odor of bark peculiar and rancid, its taste at first sweetish, but afterwards 
acrid, and causing a flow of saliva. Central column woody, tasteless and 
inodorous. Resembling senega root. — Arnica, Valerian, Serpentary, and Green 
Hellebore, but none of these have a keel. 

Composition. — The active principle is saponin (C 32 H 54 18 ). So called 
because it is also found in saponaria (quillaia bark, q. v.) Saponin is 
sometimes termed senegin, or polygalic acid. It is a colorless amorphous glu- 
coside, decomposed by hydrochloric acid into sugar and sapogenin. It exists 
as a white powder, which forms a soapy emulsion when mixed with boiling 
water. It acts like digitonin, and is found in many plants. 

Impurities. — Other roots are mixed with it. 

Dose, 10 to 20 gr. 

Preparations. 

i. Abstractum Senegae. — Senega powdered, by maceration and 
percolation in alcohol, evaporated with addition of sugar of milk. 
Dose, 5 to io gr. 

2. Extractum Senegae Fluidum. — Powdered senega, macerated 
and percolated in alcohol and evaporated with addition of sugar of milk ; 
2 parts of ammonia are added. 

Dose, io to 30 m. 

3. Syrupus Senegae. — Fluid extract of senega, 160; water of 
ammonia, 4; sugar, 600; water to 1000. Filter before adding the sugar. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 
29 



$$8 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

4. Syrupus Scillae Compositus. — See Tartrate of Antimony and 
Potassium, p. 190. 

Action. 

External. — Saponin (and hence senega) is an irritant to the 
skin. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Senega in large doses is an 
irritant here also, producing salivation, vomiting, and diarrhoea. 
Even small doses often cause indigestion. It is absorbed with 
difficulty. 

Circulation. — Saponin circulates as such in the blood. It af- 
fects the heart like digitalis but not so certainly. It is ex- 
creted by the skin, the bronchial mucous membrane, and the 
kidneys. 

Respiration. When the powdered root is inhaled it acts as a 
violent irritant to the nose, causing much sneezing and cough, 
together with hyperaemia and increased secretion from the re- 
spiratory mucous membrane. If senega is taken internally, it al- 
so irritates the bronchial mucous membrane during its excretion 
through it, causing vascular dilatation, greater secretion, and, re- 
flexly, cough. It is, therefore, a stimulating expectorant. 

Kidney. — It is a diuretic and during its excretion through 
the kidney causes irritation of it. 

Therapeutics. 

Senega is only used as a stimulating expectorant. It is evi- 
dent that it will be useful in bronchitis, when the secretion is 
scanty, and when the power to cough is feeble. As it is an irri- 
tant to the bronchial mucous membrane, it must not be given in 
acute bronchitis, nor, on account of its gastrointestinal action, 
when there is indigestion. It has been employed as a diuretic, 
but it is not powerful, and is uncertain. 

SANGUINARIA. 

BLOOD ROOT. — The rhizome of Sanguinaria canadensis (Nat. Ord. 
Papaveracece). Collected in autumn. United States. 

Characters. — About 2 in. long and f in. thick, horizontal, cylindrical, 
somewhat branched, faintly annulate, wrinkled, reddish-brown ; fracture short 



IPECACUANHA. 339 

somewhat waxy, whitish, with numerous small, red resin cells, or of a nearly 

uniform, brownish-red color; bark, thin; odor, slight; taste, persistently bitter 

and acrid. 

Composition.— (1) Sanguinarine. Symbol C 19 H 17 N0 4 . (2) Porphy- 

roxine. (3) Puccine. 

Preparations. 

1. Acetum Sanguinariae. — Sanguinaria, 10; by percolation with 
diluted acetic acid to 100. 

Dose, 5 m. to 3 fl. dr. 

2. Extractum Sanguinariae Fluidum.— By maceration and per- 
colation with alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. (expectorant), ^ to 1 fl. dr. (emetic). 

3. Tinctura Sanguinariae. Sanguinaria, 15, by maceration in 
alcohol, and water, and percolation to 100. 

Dose, 5 m. to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Sanguinaria is an acrid emetic with stimulant, narcotic powers ; 
it is also expectorant and said to be an emenagogue. It is chiefly 
used as a stimulating expectorant in chronic bronchitis or in ad- 
vanced stages of the acute disease. 

PULSATILLA. 

The herb of Anemone Pulsatilla and Anenome pratensis, and of Anemone 
patens var. Nuttalliana (Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece). Collected soon after flow- 
ering. United States. 

Characters. — Leaves radical, petiolate, si Iky- villous, twice or thrice 
deeply three-parted, or pinnately cleft, with linear, acute lobes, appearing after 
the large, purple flowers ; inodorous, very acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is anemonin. Symbol, C 15 H 12 6 . 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

It is said to be very nearly the equivalent of senega, and also 
to paralyze the heart and respiratory centers. It has been used in 
asthma, convulsive coughs and in bronchitis. It has been highly 
recommended for orchitis and epididymitis. 

IPECACUANHA. 

IPECAC. — The root of Cephaelis Ipecacuanha (Nat. Ord. Rubiacece). 
Brazil. 



340 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Twisted pieces 2 to 4 in. long, J in. diameter. Cortical 
portion thick, brownish, annulated, with a resinous waxy fracture, active. 
Central portion, whitish, woody axis, inactive. Taste acrid, bitter. Odor 
slight, peculiar. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Emetine, C 20 H 30 NO 5 . A 
crystalline alkaloid and the active principle. It is white (turns yellow on keep- 
ing), odorless, bitter, feebly soluble, but formes soluble unstable salts. (2) 
Ipecacuanhic or cephaelic acid. (3) A glucoside. (4) Tannin, volatile oil, 
starch, gum, etc. 

Impurities. — Hemidesmus, which is cracked, not annulated. Almond 
powder, occasionally found mixed with powdered ipecacuanha root, gives odor 
of prussic acid when moistened. 

Dose of powdered root, y^, to 2 gr. (expectorant), 15 to 30 gr. (emetic). 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Ipecacuanhae Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation with alcohol, distillation of alcohol, addition of water to resi- 
due, evaporation and addition of alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

2. Pulvis Ipecacuanhae et Opii. — Synonym, Dover's Powder. 

See Opium (p. 263). 

3. Trochisci Ipecacuanhae — Powdered Ipecac, 25 gr., pow- 
dered tragacanth 25, powdered sugar 1000, syrup of orange, a sufficient 
quantity for 100 troches. Each troche contains % gr. ipecacuanha. 

Dose, 1 to 6. 

4. Trochisci Morphinae et Ipecacuanhae.— See Morphine 
(p. 266). 

5. Syrupus Ipecacuanhae. — Fluid extract of ipecac, 5 ; syrup, 95. 
Dose, 5 m. to 2 fl. dr. 

6. Tinctura Ipecacuanhae et Opii. — See Opium (p. 264). 

7. Vinum Ipecacuanhae. — Fluid extract of ipecac, 7; stronger 
white wine, 93. Filter. 

Dose 1 to 60 m. 

Action. 

External. — Ipecacuanha powder is a powerful irritant to 
the skin, producing redness, vesication, and pustulation. It has 
some antiseptic powers, for it can destroy anthrax bacilli, but 
it has no effect on the spores. This property is not due to its 
emetine, but to some other constituent. 



IPECACUANHA. 34I 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Here also the irritating action 
of ipecacuanha is seen. It increases the flow of saliva, dilates 
the gastric vessels, and stimulates the secretion of gastric juice. 
Therefore small doses are distinctly stomachic, and aid 
digestion. Large doses are, however, powerfully emetic. This 
is partly due to their irritant effect upon the stomach, but still 
more to the fact that emetine acts directly upon the vomiting 
center in the medulla, as can be proved by observing that, when 
the alkaloid is thrown directly into the circulation, vomiting fol- 
lows before there is time for it to have been excreted into the 
stomach. Ipecacuanha is, therefore, both a direct and indirect 
emetic. It produces a certain amount of depression, but not 
more than the mere act of vomiting will explain. It does not 
usually cause nausea. The irritant effect is continued in the in- 
testine, and hyperaemia, excessive secretion, and purging result. 
In dysentery there is a peculiar tolerance of ipecacuanha. Ipe- 
cacuanha increases the amount of bile secreted, and is therefore 
a direct cholagogue. 

Circulation. — No specific effect whatever is produced except 
by enormous doses which may arrest the beat of the heart, but 
the act of vomiting is somewhat depressing. 

Respiration. — This likewise is unaffected. Ipecacuanha pow- 
der when inhaled, or ipecacuanha taken internally, when it is 
excreted by the bronchial mucous membrane, causes hyperaemia 
of it, together with an increased secretion of bronchial mucus, 
and therefore, reflexly, coughing is stimulated. It is, conse- 
quently, an expectorant ; and because the nausea it induces 
depresses the circulation a little, it is called a depressant expecto- 
rant, but this is a misnomer, considering that the bronchial 
mucous membrane is stimulated. Animals to which large doses 
of ipecacuanha or of emetine have been given show, after death, 
considerable hyperaemia of the bronchial mucous membrane, of 
the lungs, and of the stomach and intestines, and the same con- 
dition of the respiratory passage is seen if ipecacuanha powder 
has been inhaled. 

Skin. — Ipecacuanha is a mild diaphoretic. 



342 organic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Ipecacuanha is never at the present day em- 
ployed for its external irritant effect. It has been used with suc- 
cess, as an antiseptic, in cases of anthrax. It is directed that the 
wound should be dressed with the powder, and that 5 grains 
should be taken by the mouth, every four hours. 

Internal. — Stomach. — Occasionally in small doses, such as 4 
or 5 minims of the wine or ^ gr. of the powder, it is em- 
ployed as a stomachic, and these quantities may even stop vomit- 
ing when other drugs have failed. A usual prescription to arrest 
the vomiting of pregnancy is a minim of ipecacuanha wine in water 
every half jhour. The powder of ipecac and opium has been 
praised in cases of gastric ulcer ; no doubt any good effect it may 
have is due to its stimulating power. Ipecacuanha is a very common 
emetic. It should not be given when it is desired, as in cases 
of poisoning, to empty the stomach quickly, for some time 
elapses before it is absorbed and influences the medulla; nor 
should it be given to the very feeble, for it has no action that will 
counteract the depression of the vomiting. But it is an excellent 
emetic when it is wished, by the act of vomiting, to empty the 
air-passages, as in bronchitis, the early stages of diphtheria, 
tracheitis, and laryngitis, for not only the vomiting but the effect 
of the ipecacuanha on the respiratory tract and the slight subse- 
quent depression will be beneficial. It is chiefly employed for 
this purpose in children, as they cannot cough well, and often it 
seems to act like a charm. It used to be given in the early stage 
of fevers, to empty the stomach of undigested food. A good 
emetic powder for an adult consists of 20 grains of powdered 
ipecacuanha with y 2 gr. of tartar emetic. 

Impecacuanha is said to be a specific for dysentery. How it 
acts is not known. Very large doses must be given — 60 to 90 
grains in a single dose, or 20 grains every four hours. 

Half a grain to a grain or more is often combined in a pill 
with other cholagogues to relieve cases of hepatic dyspepsia, and 
sometimes with excellent results. 

Respiration. — Ipecacuanha is a very common expectorant. 



LOBELIA. 343 

Lozenges may be sucked, or the syrup or wine may be given in- 
ternally. It is suitable in cases of bronchitis or phthisis in which 
the secretion is scanty, and therefore there is much purposeless 
cough ; and also when the disease is of long-standing, for then the 
stimulation of the chronically inflamed mucous membrane will aid 
the cure of it. Its power of exciting the act of coughing adds to 
its usefulness. 

The inhalation of ipecacuanha powder by means of an atomizer 
has been recommended in cases of asthma, and for the asthma- 
like paroxysms which often accompany chronic bronchitis. Some- 
times it does good, but it may make the trouble worse. 

Skin. — Dover's powder is very commonly used as a diaphoretic 
in mild feverish attacks. 

ALLIUM. 

GARLIC. — The bulb of Allium sativum (Nat. Ord. Liliacece). Sicily, 
Italy. 

Characters. — Bulb subglobular, compound, consisting of about eight 
compressed, wedge-shaped bulblets, which are arranged in a circle around the 
base of the stem, and covered by several dry, membranous scales. It has a 
pungent, disagreeable odor, and a warm acrid taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are: (i) An essential oil, which 
consists of a peculiar organic radical (ally I), combined with sulphur ; symbol 
(C 3 H 5 ) 2 S. (2) Mucilage. (3) Albumen. 

Preparation. 

Syrupus Allii. — Fresh garlic, 15 ; sugar, 60 ; diluted acetic acid, 40. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

The effects of garlic are those of a general stimulant, 
quickening the circulation, excititing the nervous system, and 
promoting expectoration. It is beneficial in impaired digestion, 
in chronic catarrhal and other pectoral affections in which symp- 
toms of inflammation have subsided and a relaxed state of the 

vessels remains. 

LOBELIA. 

LOBELIA. — The leaves and tops of Lobelia inflata (Nat. Ord. Lobe- 
liacece). Collected after a portion of the capsules have become inflated. North 
America. 



344 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Compressed, oblong, rectangular packages, ^ to I lb. 
each, and wrapped in sealed and labelled papers. The separate pieces are of 
varying lengths, yellowish-green, angular, and bearing sessile or stalked, hairy, 
oval, irregularly toothed leaves, together with some flowers and fruits. Odor 
slight, irritating. Taste first mild, then burning and acrid when chewed. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Lobeline, a liquid, volatile, 
oily alkaloid, 30 per cent. Taste pungent. Odor like tobacco. It is combined 
with (2) lobelic acid, and forms crystallizable salts. (3) Lobelacine. 

Incompatibles. — Caustic alkalies, as they decompose lobeline. 

Preparations. 

1. Acetum Lobeliae. — Powder, 10. By percolation with diluted 
acetic acid to 100. 

Dose, 10 to 60 m. 

2. Extractum Lobeliae Fluidum. — Powder. By maceration 
and percolation in diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 10 m. 

3. Tinctura Lobeliae. — Powder, 20. By percolation with diluted 
alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

Action. 

External. — Lobelia has no effect on the skin, but it is stated 
that poisonous symptoms may occur from absorption of it through 
the epidermis. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Moderate or large doses 
are powerfully irritant, and thus they cause violent vomiting and 
purging. A peculiarity of the action of lobelia is that these re- 
sults are accompanied by very intense prostration, as shown by 
the feeble pulse, cold sweats, pale skin, and great muscular re- 
laxation. 

Circulation. — In the frog the heart is at first stimulated, but 
soon depressed, and it finally stops in diastole. The blood-pres- 
sure falls. This is due partly to the action on the heart, and 
partly to paralysis of the vaso-motor centers. 

Respiration. — Small doses slow respiration, large doses strong- 
ly depress the respiratory center, and death takes place from re- 
spiratory failure. The muscular coat of the bronchi is said to be 
relaxed. 



GRINDELIA. 345 

Nervous system. — Toxic doses are required to affect the high- 
er cerebral centers, and then coma and convulsions are produced, 
but it is not clear how far these results are due to asphyxia. The 
respiratory and vaso-motor centers, and probably the cardiac, are, 
as already mentioned, depressed. Experiments seem to show that 
the motor centers of the cord are also depressed. Muscles and 
nerves are unaffected. 

Lobeline is probably excreted by the kidneys and skin, and is 
said to have diuretic and diaphoretic properties. 

Therapeutics. 

Lobelia has been recommmended as a purgative and as an 
emetic, but it should not be used for these purposes, because of 
its great liability to produce collapse. It is employed in asthma 
to relax the muscular coat of the bronchial tubes. A teaspoon- 
ful of the tincture should be given till nausea is experienced, but 
it should never be pushed beyond that point. It may also be 
prescribed for bronchitis accompanied by spasmodic dyspnoea. 

GRINDELIA. 

GRINDELIA. — The leaves and flowering tops of Grindelia robtista 
(Nat. Ord. Compositce). California. 

Characters. — Leaves about 2 in. or less long, varying from broadly 
spatulate or oblong, to lanceolate, sessile or clasping, obtuse, more or less sharply 
serrate, pale-green, smooth, finely dotted, brittle ; heads many-flowered ; the in- 
volucre hemispherical, about ^ in. broad, composed of numerous, imbricated, 
squamosely-tipped scales ; ray-florets yellow, regulate, pistillate ; disk-florets 
yellow, tubular, perfect ; pappus consisting of three arms of the length of the 
disk-florets ; odor balsamic ; taste pungently aromatic and bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil. (2) A 
resin. (3) Probably an alkaloid 

Preparation. 

Extractum Grindeliae Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

In small doses, grindelia is a mild stomachic and cardiac seda- 
tive, but its main action depends upon the fact that in its excretion 
30 



346 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

by the bronchial mucous membrane it acts as an expectorant, 
and also relaxes the muscular coat of the bronchial tubes, and 
this explains its efficacy in asthma. Two or three doses of twenty 
minims of the fluid extract in milk, which prevents precipitation 
in the resin, given every twenty minutes will often allay the 
paroxysms of asthma. Between the attacks, this dose should 
be taken three times a day. 

The same quantity may with advantage be added to mixtures 
prescribed for chronic bronchitis, for not only is grindelia an ex- 
pectorant, but it relieves the asthmatic paroxysms which so 
frequently accompany bronchitis. It is very bitter ; its taste is 
best concealed byspirituschloroformi. Cloths soaked in a lotion 
of 1 fl. dr. of the fluid extract to 6 fl. oz. in water are applied 
to the skin for the dermatitis caused by Rhus toxicodendron, the 
poison ivy. The same lotion is used in burns, and as an injection 
in gleet and leucorrhoea. 

ASCLEPIAS. 

PLEURISY ROOT.— The root of Asdepias tuberosa (Nat. Ord. As- 
clepiadacece) . United States. 

Characters. — Large and fusiform, I to 6 in. long, and % in. or more in 
thickness ; externally orange-brown, internally whitish ; it is inodorous, and has 
a bitterish, somewhat acrid taste. 

Dose, J4 to 2 dr. 

Uses. 

Pleurisy root is used in the disease which gives its name, and 
in various pectoral affections. It possesses diaphoretic and ex- 
pectorant properties, without being stimulant. 

CASTANEA. 

CHESTNUT.— The leaves of Castanea vesca (Nat. Ord. Cupulifera), 
collected in September or October, while still green. United States. 
Characters. — Well known. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Castaneae Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, ]/ 2 to 2 fl. dr. 



cinchona. 347 

Uses. 

Chestnut leaves are used only in whooping-cough, because 
they are supposed to possess antispasmodic and expectorant 
properties. 

INULA. 

ELECAMPANE. — The root of Inula Helenium (Nat. Ord. Composi- 
tes). Europe. 

Characters. — In transverse concave slices, with overlapping bark, ex- 
ternally wrinkled and brown ; internally grayish, fleshy, dotted with numerous 
shining, yellowish-brown resin-cells ; odor peculiar, aromatic ; taste bitter and 
pungent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Inulin, sometimes called 
alantin ; symbol C 6 H 10 O 5 , H 2 0, which is found in 19 to 44 per cent., accord- 
ing to the season; (2) alantic acid; (3) helenin ; symbol C 6 H g O. 

Dose, )l to 1 dr. 

Uses. 

It is chiefly used in diseases of the lungs, especially when 
complicated with general debility. Recently, some laboratory 
experiments have suggested that helenin may be of value in the 
treatment of tuberculosis, since it is a bactericide. 



GROUP IV. 

Vegetable Drugs having Antiperiodic, Antipyretic, and Antiseptic Properties. 

Cinchona, Quinine, Magnolia, Cornus, Salicin, Sali- 
cylic Acid, Gaultheria, Hydrastis. 

CINCHONA. 

CINCHONA. — Cinchona Bark. The dried bark of Cinchona Calisaya 
(yellow cinchona), C. officinalis (pale cinchona), C.succirubra (red cinchona) 
C. lancifolia (Columbian bark), and other species of Cinchona (Nat. Grd. Ru- 
biacece) from which at least 3 per cent, of the peculiar alkaloids of the bark 
may be obtained. South America, Jamaica, India, Ceylon. (Salts of quinine 
and cinchonine may be obtained from some species of Remijia.) 

Composition. — The chief constituents of cinchona bark are several alka- 
loids, acids, a glucoside, tannin, a coloring matter and a volatile oil. 

(1) Quinine. — An alkaloid. C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 ,3H 2 O. Exists as the hydrate. 
White acicular crystals, inodorous, very bitter. Gives a green color with 



348 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA.' 

chlorine water and ammonia ; turns the plane of polarization to the left ; solu- 
tions of its salts are fluorescent. Soluble in ether and in ammonia. Forms 
salts with acids. [See Sulphate and Hydrochlorate, p. 351. 

(2) Quinidine. — An alkaloid. C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 . Isomeric with quinine, dif- 
fering from it only in crystallizing in prisms, turning the plane of polarization 
to the right, and not being soluble in ammonia except in excess. 

(3) Cinchonine. — An alkaloid. C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 . Colorless prisms, inodor- 
ous, bitter. No green color with chlorine water and ammonia. Turns the 
plane of polarization to the right. Not fluorescent. Almost insoluble in ether 
and in ammonia. 

(4) Cinchonidine. — An alkaloid. C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 . Isomeric with cinchonine, 
differing from it in turning the plane of polarization to the left, being sparingly 
soluble in ether, and being slightly fluorescent. 

Good red bark should yield 5 to 6 per cent, alkaloids, not less than 2 per 
cent, being quinine. Good yellow bark, at least 2 per cent, of quinine. Pale 
bark, very little quinine, but 0.7 to 1. 4 total a kaloids, chiefly cinchonine and 
quinidine. 

(5) Conquinamine . — An alkaloid. Not important. 

(6) Chinic or quinic acid. — C 7 H 12 6 Large colorless prisms. It and 
its salts are soluble in water, and thus quinine may be given subcutaneously as 
quinate of quinine. This acid is found in the coffee bean and other plants. 
It is allied to benzoic acid,. and appears in the urine as hippuric acid. 

(7) Chinovic acid. — A white amorphous substance related to chinovin. 

(8) Chinovin. — A glucoside, which easily decomposes into glucose and 
chinovic acid. 

(9) Cincho-tannic acid. — 1 to 3 per cent. It is the astringent principle of 
cinchona bark. It differs from tannic acid in becoming green with per-salts of 
iron. It is easily oxidized to cinchona red. 

(10) Cinchona red. — The coloring matter of the bark. It is almost insol- 
uble in water. 

(11) A volatile oil. — This exists in minute quantities. Cinchona bark 
owes its smell to it. 

Remijia bark yields in addition homoquinine, which produces quinine and 
another alkaloid, cupreine. 

Impurities. — Inferior barks. 

The total alkaloids are estimated as follows : 

(a) For Total Alkaloids. — Make a milk of lime 5 parts, and 50 parts 
of distilled water, thoroughly mix with 20 parts Cinchona, dry, digest with 200 
parts of alcohol in a flask at near boiling for an hour. When cool pour upon a 
filter. Rinse the flask and wash the filter with 200 parts of alcohol. To the 
filtrate add sufficient diluted sulphuric acid to give acid reaction to test paper, 



CINCHONA FLAVA. 349 

decant, distil or evaporate the alcohol, cool, filter and wash with distilled water 
slightly acidulated with diluted sulphuric acid, until the washings are not made 
turbid by solution of soda. Concentrate to 50 parts, and make it strongly al- 
kaline with solution of soda. Filter and wash precipitate with distilled water, 
until washings give but a slight turbidity with solution of chloride of barium- 
Drain the filter, detach the precipitate and transfer to a weighed capsule, dry 
the contents, cool and weigh. The number of parts multiplied by five (5) 
equals the percentage of total alkaloids in the Cinchona. 

b. For Quinine. — -To the total alkaloids from 20 parts of Cinchona, add 
distilled water acidulated with diluted sulphuric acid, until the mixture remains 
for ten minutes after digestion, just distinctly acid to test paper. Transfer to a 
weighed beaker, rinsing with distilled water, and adding enough of this to make 
the whole weigh 70 times the weight of the alkaloids. Neutralize with solution 
of soda. Digest and cool for half an hour. If crystals appear, filter, wash 
with distilled water, and dry. Add 11.5 per cent, (for water of crystallization) 
and 0.12 per cent of the weight of the entire filtered liquid (for solubility of 
crystals at 59 F.) This sum in parts, multiplied by five (5), equals the per- 
centage of crystallized sulphate of quinine, equivalent to the quinine in the 
Cinchona. 

CINCHONA FLAVA.— Yellow Cinchona, Calisaya Bark. The bark 
of the trunk of Cinchona Calisaya (Nat. Ord. Rubiacece), containing at least 
2 per cent, of quinine. South America and India. 

Characters. — Flat pieces, varying in length and width, are from \ to f 
of an inch in thickness, almost entirely deprived of the brown, corky layer, 
compact, of a tawny-yellow color ; outer surface marked with shallow conchoidal 
depressions and intervening rather sharp edges ; inner surface cloudy and finely 
striate ; the transverse fracture showing numerous, very short and rigid, glisten- 
ing fibres, which are radially arranged, and rarely in small groups. The pow- 
der has a light, cinnamon -brown color, and a slightly aromatic but persistently 
bitter taste ; or in quills, either single or double, varying in length from ^ to 2 
inches in diameter ; the bark is from -J-g- to y& of an inch in thickness ; it is 
covered with a grayish cork, marked by longitudinal and transverse fissures 
about one inch apart and forming irregular meshes with raised edges. The 
inner surface is cinnamon- brown, and finely striate from the bast fibres. 

The true yellow Cinchona bark must not be confounded with other Cin- 
chona barks of a similar color, but having the bast fibres in bundles or raised 
rows, and breaking with a splintery or coarsely fibrous fracture. 

Impurities. — Inferior barks, known by their not yielding the full strength 
of quinine and cinchonidine. 

Incompatibles. — Ammonia, lime water, metallic salts, and gelatine. 



35 O ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

CINCHONA RUBRA.— Red Cinchona Bark. The dried bark of the 
trunks of cultivated plants of Cinchona succirubra (Nat. Ord. Rubiacece), con- 
taining at least two per cent of quinine. South America and India. 

Characters. — Quills or incurved pieces, a few inches to a foot long, y% 
to y 2 in. thick, coated with periderm. Outer surface rough from longitudinal 
furrows, ridges, transverse cracks, annular fissures, and warts, brownish or red- 
dish brown. Inner surface brick-red or deep reddish brown, irregularly and 
coarsely striated. Fracture nearly close in the smaller quills, finely fibrous in 
the larger. Powder brown or reddish -brown. No odor. Taste bitter and 
astringent. 

Preparations. 
From the bark of any species containing not less than 3 per cent, 
of its peculiar alkaloids. 

1. Infusum Cinchonae. — Powdered Cinchona, 6; aromatic sul- 
phuric acid, 1 ; by percolation to 100. Yellow cinchona is ordinarily 
used. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

2. Tinctura Cinchonae Composita. — Powdered Red Cinchona, 
10; bitter orange peel, 8 ; t serpentaria, 2 ; glycerin, 10. By maceration 
and percolation in alcohol and water, 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

3. Extractum Cinchonae. — Powdered Yellow Cinchona. By 
maceration and percolation in alcohol and water, distillation and evapor- 
ation, and addition of 5 per cent, of glycerin. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

4. Extractum Cinchonae Fluidum. — Powdered Yellow Cin- 
chona, by maceration and percolation in alcohol and water, and evapo- 
ration, addition of alcohol and water. 

Dose, 10 to 60 m. 

5. Tinctura Cinchonae. — Powdered Yellow Cinchona, 20; gly- 
cerin, 10. By maceration and percolation in alcohol and water to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

QUININE. 

1. QUININA.-C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 ,3H 2 O. (Crystallized.) An alkaloid pre- 
pared from different species of cinchona. 

Characters. — A white, flaky, amorphous or minutely crystalline powder, 
permanent in the air, odorless, having a very bitter taste and an alkaline reac- 
tion. Soluble in 1600 parts of water, in 6 parts of alcohol, in 25 parts of ether, 
in about 5 parts of calomel, and in about 200 parts of glycerin. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 



QUININE. 35I 

2. QUININE BISULPHAS.— C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 H 2 SO 4 ,7H 2 O. 

Characters. — Colorless, clear, orthorhombic crystals or small needles, 
efflorescing, odorless, having a very bitter taste and a strongly acid reaction. 
Soluble in about 10 parts of water, in 32 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

3. QUININE HYDROBROMAS.— C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 HBr,2H 2 O. 

Characters. - Colorless, lustrous needles, pungent, odorless, having a 
very bitter taste and a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction. Soluble in about 
16 parts of water, in 3 parts of alcohol, in 6 parts of ether, in 12 parts of chlo- 
roform, and moderately soluble in glycerine. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

4. QUININE VALERIANAS— C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 C 5 H 10 O 2 ,H 2 O. 

Characters. — White or nearly white, pearly, lustrous, triclinic crystals, 
permanent, have a slight odor of valerianic acid, a bitter taste and a neutral 
reaction. Soluble in 100 parts of water and 5 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

From cinchona bark or remijia bark the following officinal salts are pre- 
pared : 

5. QUININE SULPHAS.— (C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 ) 2 H 2 SO 4 ,7H 2 O. 
Source. — Prepared from the powder of the various kinds of cinchona and 

remijia bark by extraction with alcohol after the addition of lime, or by the addi- 
tion of an alkali to an acidulated aqueous infusion, with subsequent neutraliza- 
tion by sulphuric acid, and purification of the resulting salt. 

Characters.— Filiform, silky, snow-white crystals, of a pure, intensely 
bitter taste and very light. Solubility. — I in 740 of water, and giving it a 
bluish tinge ; in 65 parts of alcohol ; easily in slightly acidulated water ( 1 'flX 
of a mineral acid in 2 fl. oz. of water will dissolve 1 gr. of sulphate of quinine), 
being reprecipitated by ammonia ; the precipitate is soluble in excess of am- 
monia and in ether. 

Impurities. — It should not contain more than 5 or 6 per cent, of cincho- 
nine, cinchonidine, quinidine and cupreine. Lime, chalk, magnesia, starch 
and other white powders. Salicin, detected by its giving a blood-red color 
with H 2 S0 4 . 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies and their carbonates, astringent infusions. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr., or 5 to 20 gr. (antipyretic and antiperiodic) . 

6. QUININE HYDROCHLORAS.— C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 HCl,2H 2 O. 

Source. — Obtained from the same source and by the same process as 
sulphate of quinine, the separated alkaloid being neutralized by hydrochloric 
acid. 

Characters. — Crystals resembling those of the sulphate, but larger. 



352 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Solubility. — I in 34 of cold water, 1 in 3 of alcohol. Very soluble in boiling 
water or boiling alcohol. Its solution gives a green color with chlorine water 
and ammonia. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

7. QUINIDIN^ SULPHAS.— (C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 ) 2 H 2 SO 4 2H 2 O. 

A neutral sulphate or an alkaloid, prepared from different species of Cin- 
chona, chiefly Cinchona pitayeitsis (Nat. Ord. Rubiacece). 

Characters. — White, silky needles. Permanent, odorless, having a very 
bitter taste, and a neutral or faintly alkaline reaction. Soluble in 100 parts of 
water, and in 8 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

8. CINCHONINA.— C 20 H 24 N 2 O. 

An alkaloid prepared from different species of cinchona. 

Characters. — White, somewhat lustrous prisms or needles, permanent, 
•odorless, at first nearly tasteless, but developing a bitter after-taste, and having 
an alkaline reaction. Almost insoluble in cold or hot water, soluble in no 
parts of alcohol, in 371 parts of ether, and in 35 parts of chloroform. 

Dose, 1 to 30 gr. 

9. CINCHONIDINiE SULPHAS.— (C 20 H 24 N 2 O) 2 , H 2 S0 4 ,3H 2 0. 

Source. — Obtained from the mother liquors of the crystallization of sul- 
phate of quinine by further concentration, purifying by crystallization from 
alcohol and finally from hot water. 

Characters. — Colorless, silky crystals, usually acicular. Solubility. — 
Easily in dilute acids, I in 100 of water, I in 71 of alcohol. Not in chloroform 
or ammonia. Solution bitter. Very slightly fluorescent. Turns the plane of 
polarized light to the left. 

Dose, 1 to 30 gr. 

10. CINCHONIISUE SULPHAS.— (C 20 H 24 N 2 O) 2 H 2 SO 4 ,2H 2 O. 
Source. — Obtained from the mother liquors of the crystallization of the 

sulphates of quinine, quinidine, and cinchonidine by further concentration, pre- 
cipitating the alkaloids by caustic soda, washing with alcohol till free from other 
alkaloids, dissolving in sulphuric acid, purifying with animal charcoal, and 
crystallizing. 

Characters. — Hard, colorless, short, prismatic, vitreous crystals. Solu- 
bility. — I in 70 of water, I in 60 of chloroform, 1 in 6 of alcohol, freely in 
dilute acids, feebly in ether and ammonia. Aqueous solution bitter, neutral 
or faintly alkaline. Not fluorescent. Rotates the plane of polarization to the 
right. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 



QUININE. 353 

ii. CHINOIDINUM — Chinoidin. Synonym. — Quinoidin. 

A mixture of alkaloids, mostly amorphous, obtained as a by-product in the 
manufacture of the crystallizable alkaloids from cinchona. 

Characters. — A brownish-black, or almond-black solid, breaking when 
cold, with a resinous, shiny fracture, odorless, having a bitter taste and an alka- 
line reaction. Almost insoluble in water, freely soluble in alcohol, chloroform, 
diluted acids. 

Dose, 3 to 15 gr. 

Actions of Cinchona Bark and its Alkaloids. 

The action of cinchona bark is due almost entirely to the 
quinine in it ; the other alkaloids act in much the same way as 
this alkaloid, the sulphate and hydrochlorate of which produce 
the same effect as quinine itself. The following description will 
be that of the action of sulphate of quinine, which is often called 
quinine. Any difference between it and the bark or the other 
alkaloids will be mentioned in the course of this description. 

External. — Quinine is a very powerful antiseptic. A solu- 
tion of 1 in 500 destroys many forms of micro-organisms, and a 
solution of 1 in 250 prevents fermentation and putrefaction. 
Quinine is very fatal to all low forms of animal and vegetable 
life A solution of 1 in 1000 kills many infusoria. No effect is 
produced upon the sound skin by quinine, but it is irritant to a 
raw surface. 

Internal. — Ali?nentary canal. — Quinine acts like any other 
bitter, such as calumba. The bitter taste is very marked ; in the 
mouth the gustatory nerves, and in the stomach the gastric nerves, 
are stimulated. This leads reflexly to an increase of the salivary 
and gastric secretions, and to greater vascularity and peristalsis of 
the stomach, the appetite is sharpened and digestion is aided. 
Quinine is, therefore, a stomachic. These effects, of course, 
bring about a better absorption of food ; and hence, if digestion 
was previously feeble, the patient feels stronger after a course of 
quinine. In the stomach any salt of quinine is converted into a 
chloride, some of which is probably absorbed here ; for in the 
intestines it would be precipitated by the alkaline secretions. It 
is often excreted unchanged in the faeces. 



354 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Blood. — Quinine, as the chloride, is readily absorbed into the 
blood ; and although this is alkaline, it is not precipitated, being 
probably held in solution by the gases of the blood. It is not 
known that it undergoes any alteration there, but it produces 
some remarkable changes. 

(a) White corpuscles. — If the movements of the white cor- 
puscles are being watched in a drop of blood on the warm stage 
of the microscope, and some quinine is added, they at once cease. 
Again, if the mesentery of a living frog be put under the micro- 
scope, and slightly irritated so as to set up inflammation, emigra- 
tion of the white corpuscles through the capillary walls, or 
diapedesis, as it is called, will be observed ; if now some quinine 
be injected into the circulation this ceases, but those white cor- 
puscles that have already passed out wander further from their 
capillary. If the quinine be applied locally to the mesentery, 
directly the white corpuscles have passed through their capillary 
their movement is stopped, and the motionless corpuscles collect 
in large numbers around the capillaries. It is clear, therefore, 
that quinine has the power of arresting the movements of 
white blood-corpuscles. In sufficient quantity it appears 
actually to destroy them, for in a cat killed by quinine they are 
much fewer in number than in a healthy cat. 

{b) Red corpuscles. — Quinine is said to cause a diminution in 
the size of these, but this is most likely not strictly correct. In 
fever if the temperature is high, the red corpuscles are probably 
a little smaller than natural. If the temperature be reduced by 
any means the corpuscles regain their normal size. Quinine will 
reduce the temperature, but it probably has no special action on 
the corpuscles. 

(c) Acidity of the blood. — Blood outside the body gradually 
becomes acid. Quinine prevents this. 

(d) Ozonizing power. — If ozonized oil of turpentine be mixed 
with a tincture of guaiacum, nothing occurs ; but if a drop of 
blood be added, that transfers the ozone to the guaiacum, oxidizes 
it, and turns it blue. This ozonizing power of blood is pre- 
vented by the addition of quinine. 



QUININE. 355 

(e) The stability of oxyhemoglobin is strengthened by quin- 
ine, so that the blood does not yield up its oxygen as easily as 
normally, consequently it cannot absorb oxygen readily. This 
inability of haemoglobin to take up oxygen in the presence of 
quinine is parallel with its action on other varieties of protoplasm. 
For example, fungi absorb oxygen slowly if quinine be present, 
and thus fermentation may be prevented. Phosphorescent infu- 
soria (the phosphorescence is due to rapid oxidization) lose this 
property in the presence of quinine. The ozonizing power of 
fresh vegetable juices is retarded by it. Quinine is, therefore, 
very constant and very powerful in interfering with oxidation. 

Circulation. — Small doses of quinine probably increase the 
activity of the heart reflexly because they stimulate the stomach ; 
but large doses (larger than are given to man medicinally), either 
applied to the excised heart or circulating through it, directly 
paralyze the organ ; the pulse becomes slower and more feeble, 
and the heart is finally arrested in diastole. Whether it acts on 
the muscle or the ganglia is not known. Large doses lower the 
blood pressure considerably ; this is owing partly to the effect on 
the heart, but it is probable that this fall of arterial pressure is due 
in part also to the action of quinine on the blood-vessels. If the 
spleen is enlarged as a result of malarial fever, the administration 
of quinine, curing the fever, leads to a decrease in the size of the 
spleen, but it has no direct effect on this organ, as is often 
asserted. 

Respiration. — Although, as we have seen, quinine must, because 
of its retardation of oxidation, have a powerful influence on in- 
ternal respiration, diminishing the activity of metabolism, it has 
but a moderate effect on the respiratory movements. Small doses 
slightly increase, large doses depress them. 

Temperature. — Quinine has no power over the healthy tem- 
perature, but that of fever is markedly reduced ; it is therefore, 
an energetic antipyretic. Considering its direct capability of 
diminishing metabolism in the tissues, it seems fair to assume that 
the drug diminishes heat production, and that it does so by 
acting directly on the thermogenetic tissues ; but, as it acts on al 



356 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

protoplasm, it is quite likely that it may decrease heat production 
by also influencing the cerebral thermogenic centres. 

Cerebrum. — Small doses are believed to stimulate cerebral ac- 
tivity. The results of experiments upon the action of quinine 
on the brain are so discordant as to be at present valueless. The 
effects of a large dose in man will be described under Cin- 
chonism. 

Spinal cord and nerves. — In frogs, quinine causes a lessening of 
reflex excitability, which is removed by section below the me- 
dulla; but in large doses it produces a permanent diminution of 
reflex excitability. In these animals quinine also first excites 
and then paralyzes the sensory nerves or their peripheral endings. 
The muscles are uninfluenced. These effects are not seen in man. 

Uterus. — It has often been stated that quinine will lead to 
abortion, that it will, when labor has commenced, aid the expul- 
sion of the foetus, and that it will increase the menstrual flow if 
that is scanty. It appears that the first statement is certainly in- 
correct, and that the second and third are only correct for some 
women. 

Kidneys. — After a full dose of quinine it is found in the 
urine in half an hour, and is slowly excreted for several days, 
but by far the greater part is eliminated within the first forty-eight 
hours. The excretion of uric acid is greatly diminished, that of 
urea and other nitrogenous bodies in the urine is also consid- 
erably lessened. This confirms the statement already made that 
quinine retards considerably the metabolism of the body, but 
it should be stated that very little alteration is observed in the 
excretion of carbonic acid gas by the lungs. It is said that 
minute quantities of quinine are gotten rid of by all the secretions, 
as it may be detected in milk, saliva, bile, tears, etc. , and it may 
be found in dropsical fluids if the patient has been taking it. 

Cinchonism. — In many persons a dose of ten grains or 
more of quinine produces a train of physiological symptoms, 
chiefly from its influence on the nervous system. The patient 
soon complains of ringing in the ears, fulness in the head, and 
slight deafness. With larger doses these symptoms increase, dis- 



QUININE. 357 

turbances of vision and giddiness are added, he may stagger when 
he walks, and the headache may be very intense. 

Quinine is hardly ever given as a poison, but if it should be, 
all these symptoms of cinchonism will be very severe ; the patient 
may be delirious and comatose, quite deaf and blind, and if he 
die it will be from collapse due to cardiac and respiratory failure. 
Great congestion of the middle ear and labyrinth is found in 
animals poisoned by quinine. The mild degrees of cinchonism 
pass off directly the drug is discontinued. Rarely quinine causes 
an erythematous rash, and it has been known to give rise to 
epistaxis. Those who work among cinchona barks may have a 
rash on their skin from the mechanical irritation of the powder. 

Relative Action of the Alkaloids. — The other alkaloids 
are quite similar in their action to quinine, but they are not so 
powerful. Their relative antipyretic effect is quinine ioo, 
quinidine 90, cinchonidine 70, cinchonine 40. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Quinine is too expensive for use as an antiseptic. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — It is very largely used 
on account of its stomachic properties, chiefly for that variety of 
indigestion which is the outcome of general ill-health, want of 
fresh air, anemia, etc. , and not often when the stomach is the 
organ primarily at fault. The preparations of cinchona bark are 
very useful for this variety of dyspepsia ; they contain quite 
enough of the alkaloids. The compound tincture has the ad- 
vantage of containing other stomachics. Iron is very commonly 
given at the same time to correct the general condition. Quinine 
is frequently prescribed with the tincture of the chloride of iron, 
there is always enough free acid in this to dissolve any prepara- 
tion of quinine. The dose of the sulphate or hydrochlorate of 
quinine as a stomachic bitter is ^ to 2 gr. The hydrochlorate 
is often preferred, as it is the more soluble. 

Antipyretic effect. — Quinine was commonly used as an 
antipyretic, but it has now been replaced by more certain drugs, 
as phenacetine, acetanilide, and antipyrin. It is, however, a 



358 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

very fairly certain antipyretic. It is best given for this purpose in a 
single dose of 20 to 40 grains for an adult. Such large doses 
may be prescribed either as a solution of the hydrochlorate, or as 
the sulphate suspended in milk, and at the same time bromide of 
potassium or soda should be administered to avoid the disagree- 
able tinnitus which is set up. The diluted hydrobromic acid is 
an excellent solvent, and, at the same time, will relieve the 
ringing in the ears. About one or two hours elapse before the 
temperature begins to fall. Quinine is more efficacious in reduc- 
ing a temperature just beginning to fall than a rising one. Hence 
if possible it should be administered two or three hours before 
the time at which previous experience of the particular case shows 
the temperature will probably attain its maximum ; then the fall 
will be more marked and last longer than if the drug had not 
been given. 

Specific action, — Quinine, and to a less extent the other 
cinchona alkaloids, have the remarkable property of arresting the 
paroxysms of malarial fever. If 15 to 30 grains be taken about 
two to three hours before the attack is due, it will not take place, 
or it will be very mild. The same effect will be produced if 
smaller doses, about 5 grains, have been taken four or five times 
a day during the period between the attacks. Not only is it thus 
prophylactic, but the continued use of it is curative. It is also 
preventative, even if the persons to whom it has been given have 
never had ague. For this purpose it is administered to soldiers 
and sailors who have to enter malarious regions, and it is then 
found that few of them get ague. If the disease is very severe it 
is best to give single large doses. 

If a person has once had ague, illnesses that he subsequently 
suffers from are liable to assume a malarial type. This is espe- 
cially the case with neuralgia, which is then peculiarly paroxysmal. 
It is often on the forehead, when it is called brow ague. In such 
cases the effect of quinine is frequently very well marked, and 
a cure speedily takes place. Sometimes neuralgia which is not 
malarial is temporarily benefited. We do not know how quinine 
cures ague ; it is said to prevent the segmentation of the micro- 



cornus. 359 

organism which is believed to exist in the blood in this malady. 
It has been given for a host of diseases, especially septicaemia, 
but there is not any evidence that it does good to any except 
those mentioned. 

The preparations of the bark contain so little quinine that 
they cannot be used as antipyretics or antiperiodics. 

Quinine should be avoided in (i) persons suffering from acute 
or subacute disease of the middle ear; (2) those suffering from 
gastro-intestinal irritation, which it may increase ; (3) those peo- 
ple, occasionally met with, in whom quite small doses produce 
very severe symptoms of cinchonism. 

Warburg's tincture is a medicine which has a very high reputation in 
India for malaria. It has been called Tinctura Antiperiodica. The published 
formula states that it is a proof spirit tincture, containing sulphate of quinine, 
I in 50; Socotrine aloes, I in 40; opium, 1 in 4000; rhubarb, I in 125; cam- 
phor, I in 500; with angelica seed, elecampane, saffron, fennel, gentian, zedo- 
ary, cubebs, myrrh, and white agaric as aromatics. Dose, I to 4 fl. dr. It is 
often prescribed to be made without the aloes. 

MAGNOLIA. 
MAGNOLIA. — The bark of Magnolia glauca, Magnolia acuminata, 
and Magnolia tripetala (Nat. Ord. Magnoliacece). United States. 

Characters.— The bark from young wood is quilled or curved, thin, ex- 
ternally orange-brown and glossy, or light gray, with scattered warts and some- 
what fissured; internally whitish or pale brownish and smooth; inodorous; 
taste somewhat astringent, pungent, and bitter. 
Dose, }( to 1 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Magnolia bark is a gentle stimulant, aromatic tonic and dia- 
phoretic and is useful in chronic rheumatism, and is capable, if 
freely given, of arresting the paroxysms of intermittent fever. 

CORNUS. 

DOGWOOD. — The bark of Cornus jlorida (Nat. Ord. Comacece). 
United States. 

Characters. — In curved pieces, about y% in. thick ; outer and inner sur- 
face pale-reddish ; inodorous ; astringent and bitter. 

Preparation. 
Extractum Cornus Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with glycerine and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 10 to 60 m. 



360 organic materia medica. 

Action and Uses. 

Cornus Florida taken internally, increases the force and fre- 
quency of the pulse. It is employed with success, at times, as a 
substitute for cinchona bark, by the physicians in the Southern 
States. 

SALIX. — Willow. The bark of the Salix alba and of other species of 
Salix (Nat. Ord., Salicacece). United States. 

Characters. In fragments or quills, from -£ z to t l of an inch thick, 
smooth; outer surface somewhat glossy, brownish or yellowish, more or less 
finely warty; under the corky layer, green; inner surface brownish white, 
smooth, the fibres separating in thin layers ; inodorous ; bitter, and astringent. 

SALICINUM. 

SALICIN. — C 13 H 18 7 . A neutral principle obtained from the bark of 
Salix Helix (Nat. Ord., Salicacece) , and other species of Salix. Britain and 
United States. 

Source. — (1) Make a strong decoction of willow bark. (2) Remove the 
tannin by warming and agitating the decoction with oxide of lead. (3) Eva- 
porate the solution. Salicin crystallizes out, and is purified by maceration with 
charcoal. 

Characters. — Colorless, shining, silky crystals of a bitter taste. Colored 
red with sulphuric acid. Solubility. — I in 28 of cold water, 1 in 7 of boiling 
water, I in 30 of alcohol. Not in ether. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

SALICYLIC ACID. 

ACIDUM SALICYLICUM.— Salicylic acid. HC 7 H 5 3 . 

Source. — Made by combining carbolic acid with carbonic acid gas. Thus 
dry carbonic anhydride is passed through carbolate of sodium heated to 400 F. 
C 6 H 5 ONa + C0 2 = NaC 7 H 5 3 (salicylate of sodium). This is treated with 
hydrochloric acid. NaC 7 H 5 3 + HC1 = NaCl + HC 7 H 5 3 (salicylic acid). 

Or salicylic acid may be obtained from natural salicylates, such as the oil 
of winter-green [Gaultheria procumbens, Nat. Ord., Ericacece), which contains 
methylsalicylate, or the oil of sweet birch, Betula lenta (Nat. Ord., Betulacece). 

Characters. — Fine white acicular crystals. The artificial are white and 
small. The natural are slightly yellowish and larger. Both have the following 
characters : — Inodorous. Taste first sweetish, then acid Light, easily diffused, 
irritating to the nostrils. Melt at 347 F. Resembling artificial salicylic acid. 
— Strychnine, but the crystals of strychnine are larger, colorless, non-irritating, 
less soluble, solution very bitter. Solubility. — 1 in 450 of water. Readily in 
alcohol, ether, hot water, solutions of ammonium citrate, ammonium acetate, 



SALICYLIC ACID. 36 1 

sodium phosphate, or borax. The natural acid is not quite so soluble as the 
artificial. Aqueous solutions give a reddish violet color with perchloride of iron. 

Incompatible. Spirit of nitrous ether. 

Impurities. — Orthocreasotic and metacreasotic acids. These exist only 
in artificial salicylic acid. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

SODII SALICYLAS.— Salicylate of Sodium. (NaC 7 H 5 3 ) 2 H 2 0. 

Source. — Obtained by acting on carbonate of sodium or caustic soda with 
salicylic acid. 

Characters. — Small, white, crystalline plates. Odor none. Taste sweet- 
ish saline. Solubility. — 1 in 15 of water, I in 6 of alcohol. 

Impurities. — Orthocreasotic and metacreasotic acids. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

LITHII SALICYLAS.— Salicylate of Lithium. (LiC 7 H 5 3 ) 2 H 2 0. 

Source. — Obtained by heating salicylic acid, carbonate of lithium, and 
water, until effervescence ceases, filtering, and evaporating. 

Characters. — A white powder, deliquescent, odorless or nearly so, hav- 
ing a sweetish taste, and a faintly acid reaction. Solubility. Very soluble in 
water and in alcohol. 

Dose 1 to 15 gr. 

Action of Salicin, Salicylic Acid, and Salicylate of 
Sodium, and of Lithium. 

External. — Salicin and salicylic acid are antiseptics rather 
more powerful than carbolic acid. They are stimulant and mildly 
irritant to the skin. Locally applied, they check sweating. 
The salts of salicylic acid are not antiseptic. 

Internal. — Alimentary tract. — When inhaled or applied to 
the throat, salicylic acid is irritating, causing sneezing and cough. 
In the stomach also it is irritant, giving rise to pain, nausea, and 
vomiting unless well diluted. The sodium and lithium salts and 
salicin are much less irritating. The glucoside salicin is in the 
bowel converted into glucose and saligenin (C 7 H 8 2 ), and this is 
further decomposed into salicylic acid, salicyluric acid (HC 9 H 8 
N0 4 ), and salicylous acid (HC 7 H 5 2 ). 

Blood. — Salicylic acid, whether taken directly or formed in 
the bowel from the decomposition of salicin, is rapidly absorbed 
in spite of its insolubility, and therefore it is probably taken up 
3i 



362 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

as salicylate of sodium ; at least, this is the form in which it cir- 
culates in the blood, and consequently the following description 
will apply whether salicin, salicylic acid, or salicylate of sodium 
has been taken. It has been thought also to exist in the blood 
as an albuminate, but of this there is no evidence, nor for the 
theory that when the sodium salicylate meets with carbonic acid 
salicylic acid is set free. Some of the salicylic acid of the sodium salt 
unites with glycocoll, forming salicyluric acid, which appears in 
the urine. Thus: HC 7 H 5 3 +C 2 H 5 N0 2 (glycocoll)=:HC 9 H 8 N0 4 
(salicyluric acid) + H 2 0. It will be noticed that this change is 
precisely analogous to the conversion of benzoic into hippuric acid 
by its union with glycocoll. 

Heart. — Salicin and salicylic acid are often stated to depress 
the force of the heart and cause a fall of blood-pressure. Careful 
comparison shows that salicin is not nearly so depressant as the 
acid — in fact it is probable that it has not this action at all, unless 
given in toxic doses. Further, natural salicylic acid is not so de- 
pressant as the artificial variety. For example, Charteris found 
that 30 grains of salicin, or 10 grains of natural salicylic acid, or 
32 grains of natural salicylate of sodium had no injurious effect on 
a rabbit, but that much smaller doses than these of the artificial 
acid or its salt killed the animal. The artificial variety was found 
to contain orthocreasotic and metacreasotic acids, and these are 
powerful cardiac depresssants. Thus it seems probable that 
the depressing effects commonly ascribed to salicylic acid are 
really due to the impurities of the artificial form. 

Respiration. — Moderate doses have very little effect on respi- 
ration. Toxic doses strongly depress it. 

Temperature. — In medicinal doses salicin and salicylic acid 
have no influence on the temperature of man, in toxic doses they 
slightly lower it ; but they readily depress a ferbrile temperature, 
and are therefore called antipyretics. They cause a slight in- 
crease of perspiration but this is not sufficient to explain the 
fall. 

Salicylic acid and salicin are antiperiodic. 

Nervous system. — We know little of the effect of salicylic 



SALICYLIC ACID. 363 

acid on the individual parts of the nervous system, The clinical 
symptoms known as salicylism will be described presently. 

Kidney. — Salicylic acid escapes chiefly through the kidneys. 
It has been stated also to leave the body by the sweat, the saliva, 
the bronchial secretions, and the faeces. It appears in the urine 
very soon after its ingestion (in from 10 to 30 minutes), but the 
elimination goes on slowly. It is excreted as salicyluric acid and 
sodium salicylate, which is split up by the phosphoric acid in the 
urine, yielding salicylic acid. The dark greenish color of the 
urine sometimes seen is due to small quantities of either indican 
or pyrocatechin. Occasionally salicylic acid causes haematuria, 
due to congestion of the kidneys. Probably it increases the nitro- 
genous elimination. It renders the urine antiseptic, and the salicy- 
luric acid in that fluid will reduce Fehling's solution. The urine of 
patients taking it gives a purple color with chloride of iron. 

Salicylism. — In about 60 percent, of the persons to whom 
salicylic acid or its salt is given a train of symptoms is produced 
to which the above name has been applied. They are very like 
those produced by quinine. It is probable that the cause of them 
is the impurities existing in artificial salicylic acid, but it is stated 
that the natural acid may give rise to them. The commonest is 
deafness, which is often accompanied by ringing in the ears; these 
symptoms may be relieved by the administration of a small amount 
of alcoholic stimulant fifteen minutes before each dose. Headache 
is also very frequent. The administration of the drug is usual y 
stopped when these symptoms show themselves, but if it is con- 
tinued the patient becomes violently delirious, there is nausea 
and vomiting, the face is flushed, and the other symptoms increase 
in severity. The pulse falls in both frequency and force, it be- 
comes irregular, epistaxis is common, and haemorrhages from other 
parts of the body have been recorded, such as haematuria and 
retinal haemorrhages. Albuminuria without haematuria has been 
observed. One of the rarest symptoms is erythema or urticaria. 
All this while the breathing has been becoming weaker, and death 
may take place either from cessation of the heart or the respira- 
tory movements. 



364 organic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — The ointment (officinal in B P., 1 part of the acid 
to 9 of hard and 18 of soft paraffin) may be used when an anti- 
septic stimulating ointment is required. A collodion composed of 
salicylic acid, a drachm ; collodium flexile, an ounce ; a glycerin 
containing 10 per cent, of salicylic acid; and a plaster, also 10 
per cent., are good preparations. Strong applications of salicylic 
acid are very useful for removing excess of epidermis, warts, or 
corns. Powdered salicylic acid mixed with starch or chalk may 
be employed to check profuse perspiration of the feet and axillae. 
The German Pharmacopoeia has for this purpose a Pulvis Salicyli- 
cus cum Talco (salicylic acid, 3 ; wheaten starch, 10 ; talc, in 
powder, 87). The sweats of phthisis may be treated in the same way. 
A little salicylic acid is often added to Thompson's fluid (p. 223). 

Internal. — Salicylic acid is a specific for rheumatic fever ; it 
lowers the temperature, lessens the swelling, leads to a rapid ces- 
sation of pain, and may diminish the liability to pericarditis and 
other complications. It must be given well diluted to prevent 
dyspepsia. The sodium salt is often preferred as being the most 
soluble, but in order to diminish the risk of salicylism it should 
be prepared from natural salicylic acid. If the attack is severe, 
20 grains every two or three hours should be given for the first 
twelve or twenty-four hours ; then, if the patient is doing well, 
the frequency of the dose may be gradually diminished, but it 
should be continued thrice daily for ten days after the tempera- 
ture is normal and the pain has ceased. Salicin is not so power- 
ful as salicylate of sodium, but it is said to be less depressant than 
the synthetic acid. 

These preparations are of no use for gout or osteo-arthritis. 
Salicylic acid or salicin may produce a fall of temperature in 
any fever, but, as we have more certain antipyretics, they are not 
used except for rheumatic fever. Some writers have found salicylic 
acid useful in migraine, sciatica, diabetes, and diphtheria, but it 
is probably of little value for these disorders. It has been given 
to render the urine acid in cases of alkaline urine and cystitis, 
but there are better remedies for this purpose. 



HYDRASTIS. 365 

GAULTHERIA. 

WINTERGREEN.— The leaves of Gaultheria procumbens (Nat, 
Ord. Ericacea)* United States. 

Characters. — Well known. 

The medicinal properties reside exclusively in the volatile oil. 

OLEUM GAULTHERIA.— Oil of Wintergreen. 

Characters. — A colorless, yellow or reddish liquid, of a peculiar, strong, 
and aromatic odor, a sweetish, warm and aromatic taste, and a slightly acid 
reaction. Sp. gr. about 1. 1 80. It is soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Gaultherise. — Oil of gaultheria,' 3 ; . alcohol, 97. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

It is used as a more valuable substitute for salicylic acid. The 
oil obtained from the leaves should be used and not the artificial 
product which is now extensively manufactured. 

HYDRASTIS. 

HYDRASTIS. — The dried rhizome and rootlets of Hydrastis canaden- 
sisy the golden seal, yellow-root, or yellow puccoon (Nat. Ord. Ranunculacece). 
Grows in the Alleghenies, United States. 

Characters. — Rhizome is 1 to 2 in. long, y% to % m - thick; irregular 
twisted appearance, with thin rootlets 3 to 5 in. long. Scars of decayed stems 
on the upper surface. Yellowish brown with short fracture. Interior yellowish. 
Taste very bitter. 

Composition. — It contains — (1) Berberine, (C S6 H 42 N 2 6 ) is an alkaloid 
existing as yellow prismatic crystals, and is found in many plants (Berberis, 
Coptis, Columbo, Menispermum, Nectandra, Podophyllum, Xanthorrhiza, Xan- 
thoxylum, etc.), chiefly in the orders Berberidacece, Menispermacece, and Ranun 
culacecB. It is identical with buxine, the alkaloid of Buxus sempervirens, and 
pelasine, that of Cissampelos Pareira. (2) Hydrastin, a solid. It is an impure 
hydrochlorate of berberine. (3) A third alkaloid, xantho-puccine (unimportant). 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Hydrastis Fluidum. — Powdered hydrastis by 
maceration and percolation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

2. Tinctura Hydrastis. — Powdered hydrastis, 20; by maceration 
and percolation in alcohol to 100. 

Dose, V 2 to 2 fl. dr. 



366 organic materia medica. 

Action. 

The chief alkaloid is berberine which in moderate doses acts 
as a gastric bitter, promoting the appetite, stimulating the gastric 
secretions, and peristalsis. Hydrastis increases the flow of bile 
and urine. It will contract the unstriped muscles of arteries and 
the uterus, and it is therefore haemostatic. It is mildly anti- 
periodic. In poisonous doses it stops the heart, causing a great 
fall of blood-pressure. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Hydrastis is employed empirically as a local 
stimulating application in chronic inflammations, such as un- 
healthy ulcers. It is used also as a lotion in hyperidrosis, acne, 
and seborrhoea. 

Internal. — The chief use of hydrastis is that it is empirically 
administered for chronic inflammations of mucous membranes. 
It is said to be especially valuable for uterine affections, in the 
chronic gastritis of drunkards, and to a rather less degree in other 
forms of chronic gastro-intestinal catarrh. As an injection or lotion 
it is employed (either preparation diluted with an equal part of 
water) for chronic nasal catarrh, otorrhoea, leucorrhoea, gonorrhoea, 
and as a mouth wash in aphthous stomatitis, chronic pharyngitis, 
etc. It has been given to stop uterine haemorrhage, with great 
success. From hydrastin (hydrochlorate of berberine) an oxidiza- 
tion product has been made which is an excellent remedy for 
menorrhagia and metrorrhagia. Dose j^ to 1 grain either in 
pill or hypodermatically. As an antiperiodic, hydrastis is far 
inferior to quinine. 



GROUP V. 

Vegetable Purgatives. 

Class I. — Laxatives. 

Prune, Fig, Tamarind, Cassia Fistula, Manna, Viola, Phytolacca, 
Eupatorium. Castor oil (small doses). 

Class II. — Simple purgatives. 

Castor Oil, Rhubarb, Juglans, Senna, Frangula, Aloes. 



PRUNE, FIG, TAMARIND. 367 

Class III. — Drastic purgatives. 

Scammony, Jalap, Bryonia, Croton Oil, Colocynth, Elaterium, 
Gamboge. 

Class IV.— Cholagogues. 

Podophyllum, Leptandra, Iris, Euonymin. 

PRUNUM. 

PRUNE. — The dried ripe drupe of Prunus domestica, the plum (Nat. 
Ord. Rosacea). South of France. 

Characters. — Ovoid-oblong, ij^ in. long, black, shrivelled; brownish 
pulp ; sweet mucilaginous taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Sugar, (2) malic acid, 
and (3) a purgative principle. 

Prunes are contained in Confectio Sennae. 

Dose. They can be administered freely. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Prunes are demulcent and slightly laxative. They may be 
eaten as articles of diet in cases of slight constipation. 

FICUS. 

FIG. — The dried fruit of Ficus carica (Nat. Ord. Urticacece). Smyrna. 
Characters.— Well known. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Sugar, 62 per cent. (2) 
Gum. 

Figs are contained in Confectio Sennae, 
Dose. They can be administered freely. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Figs are a pleasant food and mildly purgative, forming a con- 
venient remedy for slight constipation. 

TAMARINDUS. 

TAMARIND. — The preserved pulp of the fruit of the Tamarindus 
indica (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). West Indies. 

Characters. — A reddish-brown, moist, sugary mass, inclosing strong- 
branched fibres, and brown, shining seeds, each enclosed in a tough membra- 
nous coat. Taste agreeable, refreshing, subacid. 

Impurity. — Copper. 



368 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Tartaric acid and tar- 
trate of potassium. (2) Citric, acetic, and other acids. (3) Sugar. 
Tamarind is contained in Confectio Sennae. 
Dose. It can be administered freely. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Tamarind is pleasant and acid to the taste, and a mild laxa- 
tive. It may be made into tamarind whey (1 part of tamarinds 
to 30 of milk) and given as an acid, cooling, slightly purgative 
drink in fevers. It is a good purgative for children, and may be 
spread on bread and butter. 

CASSIA FISTULA. 

CASSIA. — The fruit of purging cassia. The pulp obtained from the pods 
recently imported of Cassia Fistula, the purging cassia (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). 
East or West Indies. 

Characters. — The pods are 1)4 to 2 feet long, 1 in. in diameter. 
Shortly stalked, pointed, blackish-brown, very hard, indehiscent ; divided inter- 
nally by their transverse partitions into numerous cells, each containing a soli- 
tary smooth, flat, oval, reddish-brown seed, surrounded by pulp. The pulp is 
viscid, blackish-brown, sweet in taste, sickly in odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A purgative principle 
closely allied to cathartic acid. (See Senna, p. 375.) (2) Sugar, 60 per cent. 

Cassia is contained in Confectio Sennae. 

Dose, 1 to 8 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
It is a laxative, only given in confection of senna. 

MANNA. 

MANNA. — A concrete saccharine exudation obtained by making trans- 
verse incisions into the stems of cultivated trees of Fraxinus Ornus (Nat. Ord. 
Oleacece). Calabria and Sicily. 

Characters. — Stalactite pieces, flat or concave on inner surface; pale 
yellowish-brown ; irregularly convex and white externally ; crisp, bitter, porous, 
crystalline, soluble in 6 parts of water. Odor, faint; taste, sweet and honey- 
like. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Mannite, C 6 H 8 (OH) 6 , 70 
per cent. (2) Cane sugar. 

Manna is contai?ied in Infusum sennae compositum. 

Dose, V 2 to 2 oz. 



poke root. 369 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Manna is given as a mild laxative to children. It dissolves 
easily in milk, and is pleasant to the taste. 

VIOLA TRICOLOR. 

Synonym, — Pansy. The wild-grown, flowering herb of Viola tricolor 
(Nat. Ord. Violacece). Europe. 

Characters. — Stem angular and nearly smooth ; leaves alternate, petio- 
late, oval or oblong, crenate, with leaf-like, pinnatifid stipules ; flowers with an 
obtuse spur, and variegated petals, shorter or longer than the calyx ; inodorous ; 
taste, somewhat bitter and acrid. 

Dose, % to 1 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Viola is an emollient, and slightly laxative, and has been used 
as a decoction in pectoral, nephritic, and cutaneous affections. 

PHYTOLACCA BACCA. 

POKE BERRY.— The fruit of the Phytolacca decandra (Nat. Ord. 
Phytolaccacece). United States. 

Characters. — A depressed globular, dark purple, compound berry, 
about )/$ in in diameter, composed of ten carpels, each containing a lenticular 
black seed; juice, purplish-red; inodorous; sweet, slightly acrid. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

PHYTOLACCA RADIX. 

POKE ROOT.— The root is the Phytolacca decandra. 
Characters. — Large conical, branched and fleshy; wrinkled, grayish- 
red ; inodorous ; sweetish, acrid. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. (emetic), 1 to 5 gr. (alterative). 

Uses. 

Phytolacca is used as an emetic and purgative, and it possesses 
also some narcotic properties. 

EUPATORIUM. 

THOROUGHWORT.-%^/w. -Boneset. The leaves and flower- 
ing tops of Eupatorium perfoliatum (Nat. Ord. Composites), United States. 
Characters. — Well known. 
Composition. — Its principal constituent appears to be a glucoside, 

Eupatorin. 

32 



370 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Eupatorii Fluidum. — By water and percolation with 
diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, }( to i fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Thoroughwort is tonic, diaphoretic, and aperient. It is a 
domestic remedy for the commencement of a catarrh, influenza, 
or muscular rheumatism. 

OLEUM RICINL 

CASTOR OIL. — The oil expressed from the seeds of Ricinus com- 
munis (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece). India. 

Characters — Viscid, colorless or pale yellow. Odor faint, characteris- 
tic. Taste acrid, unpleasant. Solubility. — I in I of absolute alcohol, I in 2 of 
spirit. Sp. gr. 0.950 to 0.970. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Ricinoleate of glyceryl, 
C 3 H 5 (C 18 H 33 3 )3. This constitutes the chief bulk. (2) Other fixed oils, as 
palmitin, stearin, etc. (3) Possibly an alkaloid, ricinine, not purgative. (4) 
According to some authorities an active principle which has not yet been isola- 
ted. 

Dose % to 2 fl. oz. 

Castor oil is contained in Collodium Flexile and Linimentum Sinapis 
Compositum. (Castor-oil seeds are not officinal, but it is important to recognize 
them. They are % in. long and y^ in. wide, ovoid, flattened. The seed is 
prolonged into a sharp beak. Epidermis shiny gray, marked by brownish 
bands and spots. Kernel white. They contain 50 per cent, of the oil, and an 
acrid substance which makes them poisonous. Three castor-oil seeds have 
been known to kill an adult man.) 

Action. 

External. — Castor oil is, like olive oil, protective and seda- 
tive, and may be used to drop into the eye when the conjunctiva 
is inflamed, and as a solvent for homatropine, but this solution is 
occasionally a little irritating. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — The so-called nasty taste 
of castor oil is mostly due to the smell, and is not noticed much if 
the nose is held when the oil is drunk. Medicinal doses produce 
no effect on the stomach. Reaching the intestine the oil is an ex- 



CASTOR OIL. 37I 

cellent simple laxative or mild purgative, acting in about five 
hours, and causing no griping nor subsequent constipation. The 
motion is soft but not liquid. Castor oil will purge even when 
rubbed into the skin. How it acts is unknown. It has been 
thought that the ricinoleate of glyceryl in the oil is decomposed 
in the duodenum, and the ricinoleic acid purges, but this is prob- 
ably incorrect. The most likely view is that the oil contains 
some purgative principle which has not yet been isolated. Prob- 
ably the seeds contain much more of this than the oil, for they 
are ten times more purgative, a fact which it is impossible to ex- 
plain if it is the ricinoleic acid which purges. Castor oil will 
purge when given per rectum. 

Mammary glands. — Applied locally to the breasts it is said to 

be galactagogue. 

Therapeutics. 

Castor oil is perhaps the best simple purgative we have, and 
is very useful in cases in which there is slight temporary consti- 
pation. Being mild in its action it is very suitable for getting 
rid of undigested food that is causing diarrhoea, and a dose of 
castor oil with a minute quantity of laudanum in it is a favorite 
remedy for certain forms of diarrhoea. It is also especially con- 
venient in pregnancy, after delivery, and when in any abdominal 
disease, as typhoid fever, peritonitis, or when, after abdominal 
operations, the irritation caused by the faeces makes it absolutely 
necessary to get the bowels open. Also it is very useful for chil- 
dren, or for very old or infirm persons, or for those suffering from 
piles or fissures. It is a good purgative to give before and after 
the use of anthelmintics. 

Its nauseous taste is the only objection to it. As already 
mentioned, this can largely be overcome by holding the nose, 
and there are many forms of castor oil in the market so prepared 
as to be almost colorless and odorless. It may be taken in cap- 
sules, but they are bulky. Lemon juice or coffee conceals the 
taste to some extent, or the oil may be added to a teaspoonful of 
peppermint water, and then a little brandy added till the oil 
neither sinks nor swims. If the inside and rim of the glass are 



372 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

moistened with the vehicle, the oil, which should, if possible, be 
between two layers of the vehicle, is hardly tasted. 

As an enema (castor oil i 3 , warm mucilage of starch 1 1 3 , 
mixed thoroughly) it is useful when a mild injection is required. 

Breasts. — The leaves of the castor-oil plant applied to the 
breasts will sometimes induce the secretion of milk. A fluid ex- 
tract of them may also be taken three or four times a day. 

RHEUM. 

RHUBARB. — The root, partly deprived of its bark, sliced, and dried, 
of Rheum officinale (Nat. Ord. Polygonacece), and other undetermined species. 
China and Thibet. 

Characters. — Cylindrical, conical, plano-convex, or irregular pieces. 
Outer surface covered with a bright yellowish powder, rounded or angular, 
smooth or a little wrinkled, showing beneath the powder reddish-brown lines 
mixed with a yellowish-brown substance, and often small star-shaped spots. 
The pieces are often bored with a hole, which contains the remains of the cord 
used to suspend them to dry. Internally hard, compact, fracture uneven, and 
with a marbled appearance. Odor peculiar, aromatic. Taste feebly astringent, 
bitter ; there is a gritty feeling between the teeth when chewed. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (i) Chrysarobin {synonyms, — 
rhein, chrysophan, see Chrysarobinum). (2) Chiysophanic acid. It is not 
known whether, when alive, rhubarb contains any chrysophanic acid, for when 
kept the chrysarobin quickly oxidizes to chrysophanic acid. The purgative 
properties are due to the chrysarobin, which also gives the yellow color. (3) 
Rheotannic acid, to which the astringency of rhubarb is due. (4) Oxalate of 
lime, 35 per cent., to which the grittiness is due. (5) Other bodies, about 
which little or nothing is known, viz. phaeorrhetin, emodin, erythrorrhetin, 
resins, aporrhetin, and rheumic acid. 

Impurities. — English rhubarb; different taste, smell, and excess of starch. 
Turmeric which is turned brown by boric acid. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. (stomachic), 10 to 20 gr. (purgative). 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Rhei. — By percolation with alcohol and water and 
evaporation. 

Dose, 3 to 15 gr. 

2. Extractum Rhei Fluidum.— By maceration and percolation 
in alcohol and water, and evaporation, 

Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 



RHUBARB. 373 

3. Pilulse Rhei. — Powder, 300; powdered soap, 100 grs. Each 
pill contains 3 gr. of rhubarb. 

Dose, 1 to 5. 

4. Pilulae Rhei Compositae. — Powdered Rhubarb, 200; purified 
aloes, 150 ; myrrh, 100; oil of peppermint, 10 grs. To make 100 pills, 
each pill contains 2 gr. of rhubarb. 

Dose, 1 to 3. 

5. Pulvis Rhei Compositus. Synonym. — Gregory's powder. 
Rhubarb, 25 ; magnesia, 65 ; ginger, 10. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 1 dr. 

6. Syrupus Rhei. — Rhubarb sliced, 90 ; carbonate of potassium, 
6; sugar, 600; cinnamon, 18; water to 1 000, by maceration and dilution. 

Dose 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

7. Tinctura Rhei.— Rhubarb, 12; cardamom, 2; diluted alcohol 
to 100, by maceration and percolation. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. (stomachic), 1 to 4 fl. dr. (purgative). 

8. Tinctura Rhei Aromatica. — Rhubarb, 20; cinnamon, 4; 
cloves, 4; nutmeg, 2; diluted alcohol to 100. By maceration and per- 
colation. 

Dose, 1 to 3 fl. dr. 

9. Tinctura Rhei Dulcis. — Rhubarb, 8 ; Glycyrrhiza, 4 ; Anise, 
4; Cardamom, I ; diluted alcohol to 100. By maceration and percolation. 

Dose, yi, to 1 fl. oz. 

10. Vinum Rhei. — Rhubarb, 10; calamus, 1; stronger white 
wine to 100, by percolation. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

11. Mistura Rhei et Sodse. — Bicarbonate of sodium, 30; fluid 
extract of rhubarb, 30 ; spirit of peppermint, 30 ; water to loco. By solu- 
tion. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. oz. 

12. Syrupus Rhei Aromaticus. — Aromatic tincture of rhubarb 
10; syrup, 90. By mixture. 

Dose, 1 fl. dr. for child. 

Action. 

External. — Probably rhubarb would have, to a mild degree, 
the same action as Goa powder, but it is never applied ex- 
ternally. 



374 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — In the mouth, rhubarb in- 
creases the flow of saliva ; and in the stomach, in small doses, 
it, like any other bitter substance, stimulates the flow of gastric 
juice, and the vascularity and peristaltic movements of the stom- 
ach. It is, therefore, a stomachic, and will aid digestion. In 
large doses it causes purgation, producing in from four to eight 
hours a liquid motion, colored yellow by the chrysophan. The 
resinous constituents of rhubarb are said to increase the flow of 
bile, but certainly its cholagogue action is not sufficiently power- 
ful to completely explain its purgative properties. It is com- 
monly stated to very actively exaggerate intestinal peristalsis, but 
there is no adequate proof of this. It is liable to gripe. The 
purgation is followed by constipation ; this is ascribed to the 
rheo-tannic acid : if so, it is probably absorbed and subsequently 
re-excreted into the intestines, otherwise it would all be swept 
away in the purging. 

Kidneys. — The coloring matter is excreted in the urine and 
stains it yellow. The urinary flow is slightly increased. 

Therapeutics. 

Rhubarb is commonly given to children as a stomachic purga- 
tive in indigestion, especially when caused by errors of diet, for 
it clears away any undigested food, and its stomachic and after- 
astringent effects are valuable. In the same way it is useful in 
diarrhoea due to irritation caused by undigested food ; here the 
after-astringency is especially serviceable. A powder of pow- 
dered rhubarb and bicarbonate of sodium (which hides the taste) 
equal parts, with some powdered gentian, forms an excellent 
stomachic for young children. Rhubarb should never be given 
alone, because of the griping it causes. 

JUGLANS. 

BUTTERNUT. — The inner bark of the Juglans cinerea (Nat. Ord. 
Juglandacece) collected in Autumn. United States. 

Characters. — Thin flat or curved pieces, y% to ^ in. thick ; the outer 
surface nearly free from soft cork, deep brown ; the inner surface smooth and 
striate ; odor feeble, taste bitter and somewhat acrid. 



SENNA. 375 

Preparation. 

Extractum Juglandis. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol, evaporation and addition of glycerine. 
Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Uses. 

Butternut is a mild cathartic, and resembling rhubarb, in the 
property of evacuating without debilitating the alimentary canal. 
It was much employed during the war of the Revolution. 

SENNA. 

SENNA ALEXANDRINA,— Alexandria Senna. The leaflets of 
Cassia acutifolia (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). Alexandria. 

Characters. — ^ to ij( in. long, lanceolate or oval-lanceolate, acute, 
unequal at the base, entire, thin, brittle, pale yellowish green. Veined on the 
lower surface, nearly smooth. Odor peculiar, faint, tea-like. Taste mucila- 
ginous, sickly. 

Resembling senna. — Leaves of Solenostemma Argel, Uva Ursi, and Ba- 
rosma, all equal at the base. 

Impurities. — Any of the above. 

SENNA INDICA. — East Indian Senna. Synonym. — Tinnivelly senna. 
The dried leaflets of Cassia elongata (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). Southern India. 

Characters. — 1 to 2 in. long, lanceolate, acute, unequal at the base, 
thin, entire, yellowish green and smooth above, duller beneath; glabrous or 
slightly pubescent. Odor and taste like Alexandrian senna. 

Composition of Both Kinds. — The chief constituents are— (1) Cathar- 
tic acid, an amorphous sulphurated glucoside. C 180 H 192 N 82 SO 2 . It exists as 
salts of earthy bases, such as calcium and magnesium. These salts are soluble 
in water. Cathartic acid is capable of decomposition into glucose and cathar- 
togenic acid. It is the chief purgative principle in senna and other purgatives. 
(2) Other glucosides, sennacrol and sennapicrin, which do not in most prepara- 
tions contribute to their action, as they are insoluble in water (3) Chrysophanic 
acid in small amounts as a coloring matter [see Rhubarb and Chrysarobinum). 
(4) A peculiar unfermentable sugar, catharto-mannite. 

Dose, 1 to 3 dr. 

Preparations of either kind. 

1. Confectio Sennae. — Senna, 10; coriander, 6; fig, 12; tama- 
rind, 10; cassia fistula, 16; prune, 7; sugar, 50; water to make 100. 
By dividing, sifting and evaporating. 

Dose, 1 to 2 dr. 



376 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Extractum Sennae Fluidum. — Powder by maceration, perco- 
lation in alcohol and water, evaporation. 

Dose, i to 3 fl. dr. 

3. Infusum Sennae Compositum. — Synonym. — Black Draught, 
Senna, 6; Manna, 12; Sulphate of Magnesia, 12; Fennel, 2; Boiling 
water to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

4. Pulvis Glycyrrhizae Compositus. — Senna, 18; glycyrrhiza, 
16; fennel, 8; washed sulphur, 8; sugar, 50. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 dr. 

5. Syrupus Sarsaparillae Compositus. — q. v. 

6. Syrupus Sennae. — Senna, 33; oil of coriander, I per cent, of 
the alcohol; sugar, 60; alcohol, 4; water to 100. By digestion, 
straining evaporation and filtration. 

Dose, X to 1 A- oz « 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Senna, because of the cathartic acid in it, stimu- 
lates the muscular coat of the intestine, especially the colon, and 
produces some hypersemia. Consequently the fluid contents of 
the small intestine are hurried through the colon, and pale yellow- 
watery stools, containing some undigested food, are the result. 
Senna acts very feeble or not at all on the biliary secretion. 
Large doses open the bowels several times and produce griping, 
but not much hyperaemia. Probably there are other substances 
in senna, besides cathartic acid, having a purgative property, but 
it is by far the most important. Purgation by senna does not 
subsequently cause constipation. Some constituents of it are ab- 
sorbed, and may cause the urine to be red. It will purge if 
injected into the veins, and will impart its purgative properties 
to the milk of nursing women. 

Therapeutics. 

Senna is a safe, useful purgative for cases of simple constipa- 
tion. It is, because of its tendency to gripe and its nauseous 
taste, rarely given alone. The compound liquorice powder is to be 
preferred to the compound infusion of Senna ("black draught"), 



aloe. 377 

as this is a nasty mixture. Senna is largely used to complete the 
effect of duodenal purgatives, as we seenn the old prescription of 
a blue pill at night and a black draught in the morning. Acting 
on the colon, it is valuable in slight cases of faecal collection. 
Compound liquorice pcwder is much used in habitual constipation 
and the constipation of pregnancy. Confection of senna, coated 
with chocolate, forms the well-known purgative Tamar Indien, 
and in this form can be taken by children. It is said that the 
infusion contains more of the active principles than other pre- 
parations; it soon decomposes, but i gr. of nitre to the fl. oz. 

will prevent this. 

FRANGULA. 

FRANGULA. — Frangula Bark. Synonym. — Buckthorn. The bark of 
Rhamnus Frangula (Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece). Collected from the young trunk 
and moderate sized branches, and kept at least one year before being used. 
Imported from Holland. 

Characters. — Small quills, bark only -^ in. thick, outer surface grayish 
or blackish brown; inner surface smooth, brownish-yellow. Fracture short 
and purplish externally, somewhat fibrous and yellowish within. No marked 
odor; taste sweetish and slightly bitter. 

Composition. — Fresh bark contains a glucoside, frangulin. This, in the 
old bark, has become converted into emodin (also found in rhubarb) to which 
the value of the bark is due. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Frangulae Liquidum. — Powder by maceration and 
percolation with alcohol and water, evaporation. 
Dose, ^ to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The fresh bark is a violent gastro-intestinal irritant, but that 
which has been kept a year is a mild laxative, acting like senna ; 
it is suitable for children and for use in chronic constipation. 

ALOE. 

ALOE SOCOTRINA.— Socotrine Aloes. The juice, when inspissated, 
which flows from the transversly cut bases of the leaves of Aloe socotrina f (Nat. 
Ord. Liliacece). Socotra. Resembling aloes. — Resins of jalap and guaiacum, 
which are not bitter. 



37S ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — In hard masses, occasionally soft in the interior, opaque, 
yellowish-brown or orange -hjown, not greenish, translucent on the edges ; 
fracture resinous, somewhat conchoidal : when breathed upon it emits a fragrant 
saffron like odor ; taste strongly bitter. It is almost entirely soluble in alcohol, 
and in four times its weight of boiling water. Mixed with alcohol, and examined 
under the microscope it exhibits numerous crystals. 

Socotrine aloes is less deep in color, less opaque, its powder is brighter 
and more reddish, and its odor is not nearly so disagreeable as that of Barbadoes 
aloes. 

Composition. — [i) Aloin, which is a little different from that of the Bar- 
badoes aloe, and is called Socoaloin, but the physiological properties of the two 
aloins, which are isomeric, are the same. (2) A resin. (3) A trace of gallic 
acid. (4) A trace of a volatile oil gives the odor. 

P? . >is. 

1. Aloe Purificata. — Aloes, 100; alcohol, 15. Heat, strain, and 
evaporate. 

Characters. — In irregular brittle pieces, of a dull brown or red- 
dish-brown color, and having the peculiar, aromatic odor of socotrine 
aloes. It is almost entirely soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, y 2 to 10 gr. 

2. Extractum Aloes Aquosum. — Aloes, 100; boiling distilled 
water, 1000. Disintegrate the aloes, let stand and filter, evaporate. 

Dose, y 2 to 3 gr. 

3. Pilulae Aloes. — Purified aloes, 200; powdered soap, 200 grs. ; 
to make 100 pills. Each pill contains 2 gr. of aloes. 

Dose, 1 to 4 pills. 

4. Pilulae Aloes et Asafcetidae. — Purified aloes, 400; asafoetida?, 
4:0; soap, 400 grs.; to make 300 pills. Each pill contains 1*3 gr. of 
aloes. 

Dose, 1 to 5 pills. 

5. Pilulae Aloes et Ferri. — Purified aloes, 100; dried sulphate 
of iron, 1 00 ; aromatic powder, 100 grs. ; confection of rose, a sufficient 
quantity to make 100 pills. Each pill contains 1 gr. of aloes. 

Dose, 1 to 4 pills. 

6. Pilulae Aloes et Mastiches. — Purified aloes, 200; Mastic, 50; 
red rose, 50 grs. ; to make 100 pills. Each pill contains 2 gr. of aloes. 

Dose, 1 to 3 pills. 



ALOES. 575 

7. Pilulse Aloes et Myrrhae — Purified aloes, 200; myrrh, 100 ; 
aromatic powder, 50 grs. ; syrup, a sufficient quantity to make 100 pills. 
Each pill contains 2 gr. of aloes. 

Dose, 2 to 10 pills. 

8. Tinctura Aloes — Purified aloes, 10 ; extract of glycyrrhiza, 
10. Macerate in diluted alcohol and filter to 100. 

Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

9. Tinctura Aloes et Myrrhae. — Synonym. — Elixir Proprietatis 
Paracelsi. Purified aloes, 10; myrrh, 10. Macerate in alcohol and 
filter to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2j< A- d r - 

10. Vinum Aloes. — Purified aloes, 6; cardamom, 1 ; ginger, 1. 
Bv maceration in stronger white wine and filtration to 100. 

Dose, }^ to 1 fl. oz. 

Action of Aloes. 

External. — Aloes has no external action on the unbroken 
skin, but it can be absorbed from a raw surface, for aloes sprink- 
led on an ulcer, to which it is a slight stimulant, will lead to 
purging. 

Internal. — Gastrointestinal tract. — In the stomach the bitter 
principle of aloes causes it to act as a stomachic, like other bit- 
ters. In the intestine it increases the rate of the flow of bile, 
and probably the amount secreted. It produces little influence 
in the small intestine, but the muscular coat of the colon is 
powerfully stimulated, and the intestinal secretion from that 
part slightly accelerated. Aloes, therefore, purges, and naturally 
takes some time, usually fifteen to twenty hours, to act ; the 
motion is well formed, not very soft, as there is so little increased 
secretion of fluid, and dark colored from the bile in it. Some- 
times the drug gripes somewhat, because the muscular contrac- 
tion it produces is irregular. As it acts chiefly on the lower bowel 
the habitual use of it may lead to piles. 

Female genital organs. — Aloes will aggravate the menstrual 
flow : it is therefore an emmenagogue. It is excreted by the 
milk, for aloes given to the mother may purge the child. It is 
stated also to be excreted in the urine. 



380 organic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

Aloes is an excellent purgative for cases of habitual constipa- 
tion, many of which are due to an imperfect contraction of the 
muscular coat of the large intestine. It is very commonly given 
as a dinner pill (1 gr. of watery extract of aloes and ^ gr. of ex- 
tract of nux vomica) to sufferers from chronic constipation, and 
in these cases its bitter principles acting as stomachics aid diges- 
tion. To avoid griping it is well to combine a little extract of 
hyoscyamus or a little extract of belladonna with it. One great 
advantage of aloes is that the dose need not be gradually in- 
creased. It is also very commonly given as a pill with nux vomica 
and a grain or two of the dried sulphate of iron to persons suffer- 
ing from chlorosis and other forms of anaemia. It overcomes the 
chronic constipation so common in these cases, and some regard 
this as very important for the cure of the disease. The amenor- 
rhcea so frequently associated with chlorosis is often benefited by 
aloes, and amenorrhoea due to other causes may also be relieved. 
Aloes is of great service in many cases of chronic constipation of 
children. A warm aqueous solution of aloin purges when in- 
jected subcutaneously. 

Aloes must not be given in pregnancy, haemorrhoids, or 
menorrhagia. The enema is anthelmintic. 

SCAMMONIUM. 

SCAMMONY. — A resinous exudation from root of Convolvulus Scam- 
monia (Nat. Ord. Convolvulacece). Syria and Asia Minor. 

Characters.- Flat, irregular cakes, ash-gray or blackish brown externally, 
sprinkled with gray powder. Very brittle. Fracture resinous, shining, porous, 
dark gray. Easily reduced to an ash-gray powder, forming a greenish emulsion 
with water. Odor peculiar, cheesy. When chewed gives a pricking sensation. 

Impurities. — Chalk and starch. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The resin (q. v.), 75 to 
80 per cent. (2) Gum, 10 to 20 per cent. (3) Starch. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Preparation. 

Resina Scammonii. — Resin of Scammony. 

Source. — Digest scammony with successive portions of boiling al- 
cohol, precipitate the resin with water, wash it several times, and dry 
with gentle heat. 



JALAPA. 381 

Characters. — Brownish, brittle, translucent pieces ; fracture resin- 
ous. Soluble in ether. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is jalapin (see p. 382). 

Impurities. — Guaiacum resin, which blues potato. Jalap resin, 
insoluble in ether. 

Dose, 2 to 8 gr. 

Resina Scammonii is contained in Extractum Colocynthidis Com- 
positum (see Colocynth). 

Action. 

Gastro-intestinal tract, — Scammony has no effect till it reaches 
the duodenum. With the bile it forms a strongly purgative 
compound, powerfully stimulating the intestinal glands and 
causing a profuse secretion of intestinal fluids. There is some 
exaggeration of vascularity, some irregular stimulation of the 
muscular coat, but these are comparatively slight, and there is 
little if any addition to the biliary flow. As a result of these 
actions, in about four hours there is a profuse watery evacua- 
tion of the bowels. The drug is, therefore, a powerful hydra- 
gogue cathartic, and in large doses a strong gastro-intestinal 
irritant. Its action is attended with some griping. It produces 
no effect if injected into the blood, and therefore acts only locally 
on the intestine. It is anthelmintic to both round-worms and 

tape worms. 

Therapeutics. 

Scammony being a prompt purgative, obstinate constipation 
in either children or adults may be treated with it. It may also 
be given as an anthelmintic. 

JALAPA'. 

JALAP. — The tuberous root of Exogonium, Purga (Nat. Ord. Con- 
volvulacece) . M exi co . 

Characters. — Napiform, pyriform or oblong, varying in size, the larger 
roots incised, more or less wrinkled, dark brown, with lighter colored spots, and 
short, transverse ridges ; hard, compact, internally pale, grayish -brown, with 
numerous, concentric circles composed of small resin cells ; fracture resinous, 
not fibrous ; odor slight, but peculiar ; taste sweetish and acrid. On exhaust- 
ing 100 parts of jalap by alcohol, concentrating the tincture, and pouring it into 
water, a precipitate of resin should be obtained, which, after washing with 



382 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

water and drying, should weigh not less than 12 parts, and of which not over 
10 per cent, should be soluble in ether. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the officinal resin, 15 to 18 per 
cent. (q. v.). Resembling jalap. — Aloes, which is- bitter. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Jalapae. — By maceration and percolation in alco- 
hol, evaporation with addition of sugar of milk. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

Abstractum Jalapae is contained in Pilulse Cathartica Composite . 

2. Pulvis Jalapse Compositus. — Jalap, 35 ; bitartrate of potas- 
sium, 65. 

Dose, X to I °*r. 

3. Resina Jalapae. — 

Source — Powdered Jalap ; by maceration with alcohol, percola- 
tion, distillation of alcohol, precipitation with water, and drying. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Convolvulin, a 
glucosicle, 18 per cent., a hard substance insoluble in ether, more irritant 
than jalapin, and probably the most active ingredient of jalap. (2) Ja- 
lapin, a glucoside, 18 per cent. Dose, ]/ 2 gr. This is a soft resinous 
substance, soluble in ether. It is probably the active principle of scam- 
mony. It is found in jalap wood and jalap stalks. (3) Starch and gum. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Action. 

The mode of action of jalap is precisely the same as that 
of scammony, with only two exceptions. It causes a greater 
secretion of intestinal juice, and is therefore more hydragogue ; 
it stimulates the vessels and muscular coat less, and therefore is 
less irritant and griping. 

Therapeutics. 

Jalap is very largely used as a hydragogue purgative when we 
want to draw off large quantities of fluid ; therefore it is especially 
suitable for patients with Bright' s disease, for those suffering from 
uraemia, and for those with dropsy from any cause. Large doses 
should not be given if the intestinal mucous membrane is liable 
to inflame easily. It is occasionally employed for severe consti- 
pation. 



CROTON OIL. 383 

BRYONIA. 

BRYONY. — The root of Bryonia alba, and of Bryonia dioica (Nat. 
Ord. Cucurbitacece). Europe. 

Characters. — In transverse section about 2 in. in diameter ; inodorous, 
taste disagreeably bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) a bitter principle, bryonin, 
symbol C^H^O^ ; (2) a resin; (3) a concrete oil. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Bryoniae. — Bryonia, 10; by maceration and percolation 
with alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 5 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Bryonia is an active hydragogue cathartic, but has been super- 
seded by jalap. 

OLEUM TIGLII. 

CROTON OIL. — The fixed oil expressed from the seeds of Croton Tig- 
Hum (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacece). East Indies. 

Characters. — Brownish-yellow to dark reddish brown, fluorescent, with 
a viscid consistence, which is increased by age. Odor faint, peculiar, rancid. 
Taste oily, acrid. Sohibility. — I in 60 of alcohol ; freely in ether, chloroform, 
or olive oil. Sp. gr. 0.940 to 0.955. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Several volatile acids (1 
per cent, in all) ; these give the odor. Tiglic acid is the characteristic one. 
The others are acetic, butyric, valerianic. (2) Several fatty acids, both free and 
combined to form fats. (3) Crotonol, a substance which is non-purgative, but 
is capable of causing cutaneous irritation. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 m. on a lump of sugar, or mixed with butter or vaseline 
and placed at the back of the mouth. 

(Croton seeds are not officinal, but it is important to recognize them. They 
are ^ in. long, 1/3 in. broad, ovoid and bluntly oblong, covered with a brown 
shell, which on scraping becomes black. The kernel is white and oily. They 
yield 50 to 60 per cent, of croton oil. They are known from castor-oil seeds, 
which are like them, by the fact that the castor-oil seeds are bright, polished ? 
and mottled.) 

Action. 

External. — Croton oil is one of the most powerful irri- 
tants in the pharmacopoeia. A drop placed on the skin causes 
redness, burning pain, and quickly a crop of vesicles forms (vesi- 



384 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

cation); these rapidly become pustules (pustulation), and the 
surrounding subcutaneous tissue is red and oeiematous. The 
pustules may be umbilicated, but differ from variolous pustules in 
that they vary greatly in their size. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Very soon after a drop 
has been taken, there is considerable griping and abdominal pain. 
In an hour or two, the bowels are opened, and this may subse- 
quently occur several times, the notions becoming more and 
more fluid. The croton oil greatly aggravates the vascularity of 
the stomach and intestines, the mucous membrane of which be- 
comes red, oedematous and angry-looking; there is a great in- 
crease of the intestinal secretion, but none of the bile. The drug 
produces, in fact, severe enteritis, and to a less extent gastritis. 
The motions may contain blood. These effects are all due to 
the local effect of the croton oil. It is probable that the peri- 
staltic movements are increased also ; whether this is a result of 
the irritation, or of some action of the drug exerted after absorp- 
tion, is not known. Croton oil applied to the skin may cause 
free purgation. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Croton oil was formerly employed externally as 
an irritant and a counter-irritant for inflamed joints, pleurisy, 
bronchitis, phthisis, &c; but it is not often so used now, as the 
scars left after the suppuration are very unsightly, the application 
is too painful and the inflammation induced too severe. A little 
croton oil spread over an area not exceeding that of a dime may 
be applied to set up suppuration in the scalp, and so destroy an 
inveterate patch of ringworm if it is wished to cure it quickly. 
The croton oil will certainly do this, but the resulting suppuration 
is so severe that the remedy should be used with care, and only 
when all others have failed. The liniment, of the B. P. 15 per 
cent, in equal parts of oil of cajuput and alcohol, well diluted, is 
occasionally employed to stimulate the skin in alopecia. 

Internal. — Croton oil should only be given in very obstinate 
constipation not due to organic obstruction, and only one dose 
should be administered. Not more than one or two drops should 



COLOCYNTH. 385 

be prescribed. Constipation due to lead poisoning and faecal im- 
pactions are sometimes suitable cases. Placed on the back of the 
tongue, it is, on account of its small bulk, a useful purgative for 
lunatics who refuse to take anything, and for unconscious patients, 
because in such cases it is quickly swallowed reflexly ; hence also 
it is commonly given to those who are unconscious from apoplexy. 
It must never be administered to children, to pregnant women, 
to feeble subjects, to those with haemorrhoids, nor to those suffer- 
ing from peritonitis, gastritis, or enteritis. 

COLOCYNTHIS. 

COLOCYNTH. — The fruit, freed from seeds, of Citrullus Colocynthis. 
Synonym. — Bitter calumba (Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece). Imported from Smyrna, 
Trieste, France and Spain. 

Characters. — More or less broken, whitish, very light, spongy, tough 
balls, about 2 in. in diameter, consisting of the pulp in which the seeds are 
imbedded. The broken -up pulp without the seeds is alone officinal. This is 
light, spongy, whitish, odorless, with an intensely bitter taste. 

Impurities. — Seeds and cortex. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Colocynthin, an amor- 
phous or crystalline, bitter, active glucoside, readily soluble in water and alco- 
hol. (2) Resinous matter having the names of citrullin, colocynthin and 
colocynthitin, insoluble in water. 

Dose, 2 to 8 gr. 

Preparations 

1. Extractum Colocynthidis. — Colocynth. By maceration in 
diluted alcohol, expressed and straining. Percolate and evaporate. 

Dose, yi to 2 gr. 

2. Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum. — Extract of Colo- 
cynth, 16; aloes, 50; cardamom, 6; resin of scammony, 14; soap, 14; 
alcohol, 10. By melting, straining and reducing to powder. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

3. Pilulae Catharticae Compositse. — See Mercury, p. 175. 
Dose, 1 to 3 pills. 

Action. 

In small doses colocynth acts as a simple bitter, increasing 
the gastric and intestinal secretions and improving the appetite. 
In larger doses it augments the flow of bile and succus entericus 

33 



386 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

considerably, stimulates the muscular coat, causes a little griping, 
and leads to the evacuation of a watery motion. In still larger 
doses the hypersecretion is excessive and the griping is severe be- 
cause the muscular coat is powerfully irritated, and several abun- 
dant watery motions result. The drug may therefore be called 
drastic, hydragogue, and cathartic. The depression pro- 
duced may be considerable. 

Therapeutics. 

Colocynth should never be given alone, because of the grip- 
ing it causes. In the colocynth and hyoscyamus pill, i part of 
colocynth 2 parts of hyoscyamus, which is often prescribed, the 
hyoscyamus prevents this painful result. Colocynth is an excel- 
lent purgative for producing a single abundant evacuation of the 
bowels in chronic constipation, such as that so often met with in 
persons suffering from hepatic disorder, and in those confined to 
bed. Because of the watery character of the motions it may be 
given in ascites or Bright' s disease, but jalap or scammony is 
usually preferred. It is too irritant for habitual use. It should 
never be administered if there is any suspicion of intestinal or 
gastric inflammation, nor in pregnancy. It is often combined 
with milder purgatives. A diuretic action has been claimed for 
it, but this is unimportant. 

ELATERINUM. 

ELATERINUM.— Elaterin. C 20 H 28 O 5 . A neutral principle, the 
active principle of elaterium, of which it contains 15 to 40 per cent. Extracted 
from elaterium, which is a substance deposited by the juice of the fruit of 
Ecballium Elaterium (Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacece). Europe. 

Source. — Exhaust elaterium with chloroform. Add ether, wash the re- 
sulting precipitate with ether ; purify by recrystallization with chloroform. 

Characters. — A neutral substance, in small, colorless, shiny, bitter, hex- 
agonal scales or prisms, having a bitter somewhat acrid taste (not to be tasted). 
Solubility. — Not in water, I in 125 of alcohol, easily in chloroform. 

Dose, 2V to L gr. 

Preparation. 

Trituritio Elaterini. — Elaterin, 10; sugar of milk, 90. 
Dose, ^ to 1 gr. 



GAMBOGE. 387 

Action. 

Elaterin is violently purgative, producing profuse watery 
evacuations attended with griping and much prostration. It acts 
like colocynth, and except that it is much more energetic, the 
description of that drug will apply to it. It increases the salivary 
secretion. When injected- subcutaneously it purges. It is the 
most powerful hydragogue purgative in the pharmacopoeia. 

Therapeutics. 

Elaterin should not be given in ordinary constipation, as it is 
too violent in its effects, but on account of the large amount of 
fluid it brings away it is in suitable cases very useful in ascites 
and in Bright' s disease. The same cautions as were enumerated 
for colocynth are still more necessary here. It should not be 
given, or only with great care, in heart disease, on account of 
the depression produced. 

CAMBOGIA. 

CAMBOGIA. — Gamboge. A gum-resin obtained from Garcinia Han- 
burii (Nat. Ord. Guttiferce). Imported from Siam. 

Characters. — Cylindrical pieces, solid or hollow, longitudinally striated. 
Break with a smooth, conchoidal, glistening fracture. Tawny, changing to 
yellow when rubbed with water. Taste acrid. Powder bright yellow. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A brilliant yellow resin, 
gambogic acid, 73 per cent. (2) Gum, 23 per cent. This is soluble, so that 
an emulsion of gambogic acid is formed with water. 

Impurities. — Starch, woody fibre. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Gamboge is contained in Pilulae Cathartics Composite. 

Action. 

Gamboge is a drastic hydragogue purgative, causing 
much griping, and in large doses great irritation of the alimentary 
canal. Most of it passes in the faeces, but some is absorbed, 
causing the urine to be yellow. It is slightly diuretic. 

Therapeutics. 
It is not often prescribed, as it is uncertain, and gripes con- 
siderably. It should never be given alone. It has been used as 
an anthelmintic. 



388 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

PODOPHYLLUM. 

PODOPHYLLUM. — Synonym. — May apple. The dried rhizome and 
rootlets of Podophyllum peltatum (Nat. Ord. Berberidacece). North America. 

Characters. — Pieces of variable length and about \ to \ in. thick, flat- 
tened, cylindrical, with irregular tuberosities, which are marked above by a de- 
pressed circular scar, and give off below a number of very brittle brownish 
rootlets, or show, if these are broken off, a corresponding number of whitish 
scars ; dark reddish brown externally, smooth or wrinkled ; fracture short ; in- 
ternally whitish and mealy. Odor faintly narcotic. Taste bitterish, acid, 
nauseous. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) The alkaloid berberine 
(q. v.). (2) The officinal resin, which is the purgative principle. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Podophylli. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol, evaporation and addition of sugar of milk. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 

2. Extractum Podophylli. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol, distillation and evaporation of residue. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

3. Extractum Podophylli Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation in alcohol and water, distillation and solution of residue. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

4. Resina Podophylli. — Synonym. — Podophyllin. 

Source. — By maceration and percolation in alcohol, distillation of 
alcohol, precipitation of resin in hydrochloric acid and water, wash 
and dry. 

Characters. — A pale-yellow to deep orange-brown amorphous 
powder, soluble in alcohol and ammonia. 

Composition. — Podophyllin resin contains at least two other resins, 
one soluble and the other insoluble in ether. These resins contain an 
active purgative crystalline body, podophylloxin. This, it is said, can 
be split up into picro-poiophyllic acid, which is inert, and picro-podo- 
phyllin, a crystalline neutral body, the active principle. Both these also 
exist free in the rhizome. 

Incompatibles. — Water precipitates it from alcohol, acids precipi- 
tate it from ammonia. 

Dose, ^toi gr. 



leptandra. 389 

Action. 

External. — It has no external action unless applied to raw 
surfaces, from which it may be absorbed and then it will purge. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Podophyllin has a bitter 
taste. It is in large doses a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant, 
and has caused death. In medicinal doses it gives rise to much 
griping pain, perhaps some nausea, and in about ten hours there is 
an evacuation of the bowels ; the motion which is liquid, is 
deeply stained with bile. The pain shows that the muscular coat 
is stimulated, the liquidity that probably more intestinal fluid is 
secreted, and the color that more bile is poured into the intestine. 
In small doses podophyllin decidedly increases the secretion of 
bile, in purgative doses it does not, although more bile is poured 
from the gall bladder into the intestine. It is thus a direct and 
indirect cholagogue. It probably acts after absorption, for all 
its effects can be produced if it is injected subcutaneously. 

Therapeutics. 

Podophyllin is only used for its cholagogue purgative action. 
It is especially suitable for constipation due to hepatic disorder, 
whether functional, as in the hepatic dyspepsia which commonly 
goes by the name of biliousness, or organic, as in hepatic cirrho- 
sis and cancer. It must be remembered that as it causes much 
griping, it should be combined with hyoscyamus or some other 
drug to overcome this ; that it takes a long while to act, and will 
therefore be swept away before it has produced any effect if given 
with quickly acting purgatives; and that it is better to begin with 
small doses, as people are very unequally affected by it. It may 
be advantageously combined with calomel in a pill. It is so dis- 
agreeable to the taste that it is better to dissolve the resin in 
aromatic spirits of ammonia (i gr. to 5J)- 

LEPTANDRA. 

CULVER'S ROOT. — The rhizome and rootlets of Leptandra virgin- 
ica (Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacece). United States. 

Characters. — Horizontal about 4 to 6 in. long, and about }£ in. thick, 



390 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

somewhat flattened, bent and branched, deep, blackish-brown, with cup-shaped 
scars on the upper side, with a thin, blackish bark ; rootlets thin, wrinkled, 
very fragile ; inodorous ; taste bitter and feebly acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Leptandrin, aglucoside; 
(2) a saccharine principle having the properties of mannit. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Leptandrse. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol and water, evaporation and addition of glycerin. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

2. Extractum Leptandrae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with glycerin and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, j^ to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

The recent leptandra root acts as a violent cathartic, and 
sometimes as an emetic. It is an excellent cholagogue and it ap- 
pears to have a special influence upon the muciparous follicles of 
the intestine and it acts very advantageously in cases of duode- 
nal indigestion and chronic constipation. 

IRIS. Synonym. — Blue Flag. The rhizome and rootlets of Iris versi- 
color (Nat. Ord. Iridacece'). United States. 

Characters. — Rhizome horizontal, consisting of joints, 2 or 4 in. long, 
cylindrical in the lower half, flattish near the upper extremity, and terminated 
by a circular scar, annulated from the leaf- sheaths, gray-brown ; rootlets long, 
simple, crowded near the broad end ; odor slight ; taste acrid, nauseous. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) starch; (2) gum; (3) 
tannin; (4) sugar; (5) an acid resin; (6) fixed oil; (7) probably an alkaloid. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Iridis. — By maceration and percolation with alcohol 
and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

2. Extractum Iridis Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

IRIDIN. — Not officinal. Synonym. — Irisin. This is an oleoresin ob- 
tained by precipitation from the tincture by alcohol. 

Characters. — A dark brown, bitter, nauseous powder. 
Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 



volatile oils. 39 1 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Iris is a cholagogue, and as it rarely gripes, it may be given 
when it is required to use a cholagogue purgative daily for some- 
time. It may be combined with euonymin, calomel, podophyllin 
and other cholagogue purgatives. 

EUONYMUS. 

EUONYMUS. — The dried bark of Euonymus atropurpureus (Nat. 
Ord. Celastracece). Synonyms. — Wahoo, spindle-tree, hominy bush. United 
States. 

Characters. — Incurved or quilled pieces, fragments, or shreds -^ t° X 
in. thick. Color light ash-gray, with blackish patches. Inner surface tawny, 
white and smooth, with pieces of pale yellow wood frequently adhering. Taste 
at first sweet, then bitter and acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Euonymin , a resin; (2) 
asparagin, and (3) euonic acid. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Euonymi (commonly called euonymin). — By macera- 
tion and percolation with diluted alcohol, distillation, evaporation of re- 
sidue, addition of glycerin. 

Dose, i to 5 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

In small doses euonymin stimulates the appetite and flow of 
gastric juice, in larger, it is irritant to the intestine and is 
cathartic. It increases the amount of bile excreted into the 
intestine. It has slight diuretic and expectorant effects, but it is 
only used as a purgative for those cases of constipation in which 
the liver is disordered. 



GROUP VI. 
Volatile Oils. 



These, when applied externally, stimulate the skin, and thus cause redness, 
sometimes even vesication, tingling, and subsequent numbness. Taken inter- 
nally, they stimulate the gastro-intestinal tract,jincreasing its vascularity, the flow 
of saliva, of gastric juice, and of succus entericus ; and they excite its unstriped 



392 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

muscular fibres. Thus in moderate doses they are stomachics and carmina- 
tives ; in large doses they are gastro-intestinal irritants. Their irritation of 
the stomach reflexly stimulates the heart and the central nervous system. They 
are absorbed and excreted by the skin, which they may thus irritate, and by the 
bronchial mucous membrane, which they consequently stimulate, increasing the 
amount of secretion from it, its vascularity, the expulsive power of its unstriped 
muscle, and reflexly this irritation leads to coughing ; consequently they are 
expectorants. They are also largely excreted by the kidneys, which are 
stimulated even to inflammation, and hence these drugs are often diuretic ; and 
by the genito-urinary mucous membrane, which is also stimulated, often so 
energetically that it becomes inflamed. Some volatile oils act strongly in all 
these ways ; others act much more powerfully in some than in others. They 
will be classified according to the tissue on which they chiefly act, or for the 
action for which they are mostly used. 

Class I. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them), acting chiefly 
upon, or used chiefly for their stimulation of the skin. 

Terebinthina, Oil of Turpentine, Oil of Erigeron, Pix Liquida, 
Burgundy Pitch, Canada Pitch, Resin, Canada Balsam, Mustard, Oil 
of Cajuput, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Arnica, Mezereum. 

Class II. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them) acting chiefly 
upon, or used chiefly for their stimulation of the gastro-intestinal tract. 

Pyrethrum, Cloves, Pimenta, Pepper, Nutmeg, Mace, Cinnamon, 
Capsicum, Ginger, Cardamom, Sumbul, Oil of Amber, Oil of Lav- 
ender, Oil of Bergamot, Peppermint, Spearmint, Anise, Illicium, Co- 
riander, Fennel, Caraway, Sambucus, Oil of Hedeoma, Absinthium. 

Class III. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them) acting chiefly 
upon the stomach, so as to reflexly stimulate the heart and central nervous 
systems, or chiefly used for this purpose. 

Valerian, Cypripedium, Asafcetida, Galbanum, Ammoniacum, 
Myrrh. 

Class IV. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them) acting chiefly 
upon, or used chiefly for their stimulation of the bronchial mucous mem- 
brane. 

Balsam of Peru, Balsam of Tolu, Storax, Canada Turpentine. 

Class V. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them) acting chiefly upon, 
or used chiefly for their stimulation of the kidneys and genito-urinary tract. 
Juniper, Buchu, Copaiba, Cubeb, Oil of Sandalwood, Matico. 

Class VI. — Volatile oils (or substances containing them) acting chiefly 
upon, or used chiefly for their stimulation of the female genital organs. 
Savine, Rue, Tanacetum. 



OIL OF TURPENTINE. * 393 

Class I of Volatile Oils. 
Those used chiefly for their action on the skin. 
TEREBINTHINA. 
TURPENTINE. — A concrete oleo-resin obtained from Pinus australis 
and from other species of Pinus (Nat, Ord. Coniferce). 

Characters. — In yellowish, tough masses, brittle in the cold, crummy- 
crystalline in the interior, of a terebinthinate odor and taste. 

OLEUM TEREBINTHINA. 

OIL OF TURPENTINE.— The oil distilled, usually by the aid of 
steam, from the oleo-resin (common turpentine) exuding from Pinus australis 
and P. tada, America; P. pinaster, France; P. sylvestris, Russia; rectified 
if necessary. (Nat. Ord. Conifei'<z.) 

Characters. — Limpid, colorless. Odor strong, peculiar. Taste pungent, 
bitter. Begins to boil at 320 F., and almost entirely distils below 3 5 6° F. 
Sp. gr. 0.855 to 0.870. Neutral. Mixes with other volatile and fixed oils. 
Dissolves resins (the solution forms varnish), wax, sulphur, phosphorus, and 
iodine. Solubility. — Not at all in water, I in 6 of alcohol, 3 in 10 of ether, 
and in all proportions in absolute alcohol, bisulphide of carbon, and chloroform. 
By the action of oxidizing agents it is converted into a camphor. Old oil of 
turpentine is an oxidizing agent ; it readily absorbs oxygen, and becomes con- 
verted into an oleo-resin. French oil of turpentine is lsevo-rotatory, some of it 
comes from P. maritima ; English oil of turpentine, which mostly comes from 
America, and Russian oil of turpentine are dextro-rotatory. 

Composition. — Oil of turpentine is a mixture of several isomeric hydro- 
carbons (terpenes), all having the formula C 10 H 16 . They vary in their boiling- 
points and the direction in which they rotate the plane of polarization. Ordi- 
nary turpentine contains about 1 5 per cent, of the oil of turpentine, which be- 
ing a typical terpene, therefore yields a camphor on oxidization. Many isomerides 
of it, having the formula C 10 H 16 , are officinal, viz., oils of lavender, peppermint, 
chamomile, caraway, cloves, &c. The corresponding camphor of C 10 H 16 is C 10 
H le O, which is pharmacopceial [see Camphor). For other products of oxidiza- 
tion see Appendix. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. or 2 to 4 fl. dr. (anthelmintic). 

I fl. dr. of mucilage with thorough trituration emulsifies x / z fl. dr. of oil of 
turpentine with 1 fl. oz. of water. 

Preparations. 

1. Linimentum Cantharidis. — Cantharides, 15; oil of turpentine 
to 100. By digestion and straining. 

2. Linimentum Terebinthinae.— Resin cerate, 65; oil of turpen- 
tine, 35. By melting and mixing. 

34 



394 » organic materia medica. 

Action. 

External. — Oil of turpentine has, to a marked degree, the 
action of other volatile oils. Thus applied to the skin, especially 
if rubbed in, it causes the vessels to dilate, there is a sense of 
warmth, the part becomes red, and subsequently common sensa- 
tion is blunted. This oil is therefore rubefacient, irritant, 
and counter-irritant. If enough is applied it is a vesicant. 
Like the other volatile oils it is antiseptic and disinfectant. 
It is absorbed by the unbroken skin. 

Internal. — Alimentary canal. — Oil of turpentine has the 
same stimulant effect when locally applied to the mouth and 
pharynx as it has on the skin, and in the stomach it powerfully 
dilates the vessels, increases peristalsis and the gastric secretion, 
and reflexly stimulates the heart, but on account of its 
nauseous taste it is not used for these properties, which it has in 
common with other volatile oils. Its effects on the intestine are 
the same as those on the stomach, the most marked being its en- 
ergetic stimulation of the muscular coats, hence it is a strong 
carminative, expelling gas from the bowels. If a large amount 
is given the excitation of the muscular coat leads to purging, 
the motions often containing much blood, haemorrhage resulting 
from the great vascular dilatation. Oil of turpentine is anthel- 
mintic, killing the tapeworm when administered in doses of 
2 —4 5? but this treatment may cause severe symptoms. When 
given as an enema it kills the threadworm. 

Circulation. — -Oil of turpentine is readily absorbed. We do 
not know in what form it circulates. Statements concerning its 
action on the heart and vessels are very discordant, probably be- 
cause different experimenters have used different varieties of oil 
of turpentine ; but most specimens appear first to stimulate the 
heart, in some degree at least, directly, for oil of turpentine lo- 
cally applied will excite the excised heart, increasing the force and 
frequency of the cardiac beat. It contracts the vessels, and there- 
fore it is a haemostatic. The blood-pressure rises. After a large 
dose of any variety this stimulation is followed by depression, the 
heart beats feebly, the vessels dilate, and the blood-pressure falls. 



OIL OF TURPENTINE. 395 

Respiration.— -When inhaled, oil of turpentine acts on the 
bronchial mucous membrane as it does on the skin, irritating it, 
dilating the vessels, increasing and disinfecting the secretion, 
stimulating the muscles of the bronchi, and reflexly exciting 
cough. If given internally, as some of it is excreted by the 
bronchial mucous membrane, similar effects are produced. At 
the same time the activity of the respiratory movements is in- 
creased, so that the drug is a powerful expectorant. 

Nervous system. — Oil of turpentine in large doses is a severe 
depressant to the nervous system, producing languor, dulness, sleepi- 
ness, and unsteady gait. Toxic doses cause coma and paralyze 
the sensory nerves ; consequently reflex action is abolished. 

Kidneys. — It acts more powerfully on these than almost any 
other volatile oil. Even moderate doses may lead to pain in the 
loins, scanty high-colored urine, albuminuria, and hsematuria. 
The urinary passages are also irritated, consequently, owing 
to muscular spasm, there is a difficulty in passing water, micturi- 
tion is painful, and a sensation of heat in the perinaeum is pres- 
ent (these symptoms constitute strangury). If a large dose has 
been given the urine may be completely suppressed. Turpentine 
causes the urine to smell of violets. 

Skin. — Oil of turpentine is excreted by the skin, and may 
cause an erythematous rash. 

Some is probably excreted by the bile and intestinal mucous 
membrane. 

It is said to be a mild antipyretic. Old oil of turpentine is an 
antidote to phosphorus, and it is stated that old oil and French 
oil of turpentine are preferable. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Oil of turpentine is very largely employed as an 
irritant or counter-irritant in various forms of chronic inflamma- 
tion, such as osteo-arthritis, bronchitis, or pleurisy. The liniment 
forms a useful application. It may also be rubbed in over painful 
areas, as in neuralgia, myalgia, rheumatic pains, lumbago, &c. 
Sometimes it is used as a parasiticide for ringworm. 



396 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Internal. — Stomach and intestines. — It is not prescribed for 
its carminative and stomachic effects, though given either by the 
mouth or as an enema it is often very efficacious in removing the 
intestinal distension due to gas. If it is used as an anthelmintic, 
2 —4 5 emulsified in mucilage and followed by a dose of castor 
oil should be given. Sometimes it promptly relieves intestinal 
haemorrhage, such as that due to typhoid fever. It is also used 
in this disease as an antiseptic. Whenever it is prescribed as a 
haemostatic, considerable doses,. 30 to 60 1f1t, should be adminis- 
tered every hour for a few hours. 

Circulation. — It is not employed to influence this except as a 
haemostatic. It has the reputation of being fairly efficacious in 
arresting haemorrhage. It may be given in haemoptysis, gastric 
ulcer, and other conditions attended with bleeding. 

Respiration. — It is not much used as an inhalation, but it 
might be employed to disinfect foul bronchial secretions, and to 
stimulate the mucous membrane in chronic bronchitis. Terebene, 
which is not officinal, is very useful for the slighter degrees of 
chronic bronchitis, a few drops being taken from time to time on 
a piece of sugar, or it may be added to expectorant mixtures. 

It should be remembered that oil of turpentine must be given 
internally with great care because of its liability to cause inflam- 
mation of the kidneys ; indeed, this fact and its nasty taste ac- 
count for its not being so often administered as would otherwise 
be the case. It should never be given to the subjects of Bright' s 

disease. 

OLEUM ERIGERONTIS. 

OIL OF FLEABANE.-A volatile oil distilled from the fresh, flowery 
herb of Erigeron canadense (Nat. Ord., Composites). United States. 

Characters. — A pale yellow liquid, having a peculiar, aromatic, per- 
sistent odor, an aromatic, slightly pungent taste, and a neutral reaction. Sp. 
gr. about 0.850. It is readily soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

Uses. 

Oil of erigeron is less irritant and less efficient than oil of 
turpentine. It is used in diarrhoea, dysentery and haemorrhages, 
in much the same way. 



TAR. 397 

PIX LIQUIDA. 

TAR. — An empyreumatic oleo-resin obtained by destructive distillation of 
the wood of Pinus palustris and other species of Pinus (Nat. Ord. Coniferce). 
United States. 

Characters. — Brownish-black semi-liquid substance. Odor peculiar, 
aromatic. Water shaken with it acquires a pale-brown color, empyreumatic 
taste, and acid reaction. Solubility. — In its own bulk of alcohol or chloroform, 
slightly in oil of turpentine or olive oil, I in 3 of Liquor Sodse. On distillation 
it gives off an empyreumatic oil (oil of tar), which is officinal [see below), 
and pyroligneous acid. What remains behind is pitch. This is black, solid, 
melting in boiling water. 

Composition.— Tar is a very complex substance. The chief constituents 
are — (1) Oil of turpentine. (2) Creasote. (3) Carbolic acid. (4) Pyroca- 
techin (q. v.). (5) Acetic acid. (6) Acetone. (7) Xylol. (8) Toluol. 
(9) Methylic acid. (10) Resins. 

Dose, 15 to 60 m. in the form of pills. 

Preparations. 

1. Syrupus Picis Liquidae.— Tar, 6; cold water, 12; boiling 
distilled water, 50 ; sugar, 60. By solution, decantation and filtration, 
to make 1 00. 

2. Unguentum Picis Liquidae. — Tar, 50; suet, 50. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

OLEUM PICIS LIQUID^.— A volatile oil distilled from Tar. 
Characters. — An almost colorless liquid, having a strong tarry odor 

and taste and an acid reaction. Sp. gr. about 0.970. It is readily 

soluble in alcohol. 

Action. 

External. — Tar has precisely the same actions as oil of tur- 
pentine, but is not so powerful, therefore the vascular dilatation 
rarely proceeds to the stage of vesication ; but pustules may re- 
sult if the tar is rubbed in. 

Internal. — It is very liable to upset digestion; in large doses 
it causes epigastric pain, vomiting, severe headache, dark urine, 
and other symptoms of carbolic acid poisoning {see p. 254). 
Some of its constituents are excreted by mucous membranes, es- 
pecially the bronchial, on which it acts as a disinfectant stimu- 
lating expectorant. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Tar ointment is often applied as a stimulant to 
chronic skin diseases, such as psoriasis and chronic eczema. Be- 



398 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

cause of its mildly anaesthetic action, it is sometimes useful in 
pruritus. 

Wood tar is the only officinal form of tar, but coal tar is often 
used in medicine. The prepared form of it is made by simply 
heating and stirring coal tar at 1 20 ° F. ? for an hour. 

Liquor Picis Carbonis is a favorite preparation ; it may be 
made thus : Dissolve 2 oz of resin soap {see p. 400) in a pint of 
alcohol; add 4 oz. of prepared coal tar; digest at 125 F. for 
two days, allow it to cool, then decant and filter. An ointment 
of 3 parts of lard with 1 of this solution may be made. 

Liquor Carbonis Detergens is an alcoholic solution of ordi- 
nary coal tar. It is used externally in skin diseases, diluted to 1 
in 20 of water. 

Internal. — Coal tar is rarely prescribed for internal use. 
Wood tar is only given as an expectorant, and it is very valuable 
for chronic bronchitis. It may be prescribed as a pill or as the 
Syrupus Picis Liquidae, or as Vinum Picis (a saturated solution of 
wood tar in sherry, dose 1 to 4 3)> or as the French preparation 
eau de goudron. Tar water is made by stirring a pint of wood 
tar with half a gallon of water for fifteen minutes and decanting. 
The dose is a pint daily. It may be used externally as a wash. 

PIX BURGUNDICA. 

BURGUNDY PITCH. — The prepared resinous exudation from the 
stem of Abies excelsa, the spruce fir (Nat. Ord. Coniferce), melted and 
strained. Austria. 

Characters. — Hard and brittle, yet gradually adapting itself to the form 
of the vessel in which it is contained. Opaque, dull reddish or yellowish 
brown, fracture clear and conchoidal. Odor agreeable, aromatic, especially 
when heated. Taste sweet, aromatic. Readily soluble in glacial acetic acid. 

Impurities. — Palm oil, resin, and water, detected by not being soluble in 
glacial acetic acid. 

Composition. — Like ordinary resin [see p. 399), it contains resinous acids 
and a volatile oil. 

Burgundy pitch is contained in Emplastrum Ferri, Emplastrum Galbani, 

and Emplastrum Opii. 

Preparations. 

1. Emplastrum Picis Burgundicae. — Burgundy pitch, 90; yel- 
low wax, 10. 



resin. 399 

2. Emplastrum Picis cum Cantharide. Synonym— Warming 
Plaster. Burgundy pitch, 92 ; cerate of cantharides, 8. Heat the cerate 
and strain ; melt the pitch with the strained liquid. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Pitch is used as a basis for plasters. It is mildly stimulant to 

the skin. 

PIX CANADENSIS. 

CANADA PITCH. Synonym. — Hemlock Pitch. The prepared resin- 
ous exudation of Abies canadensis (Nat. Ord. Coniferce). United States. 

Characters. — Hard, brittle, with shiny conchoidal fracture ; opaque or 
translucent, dark reddish-brown, having a weak, somewhat terebinthinate 
odor. 

Preparation. 

Emplastrum Picis Canadensis. — Hemlock Pitch Plaster. Canada 
pitch, 90; yellow wax, 10. 

Uses. 

Very like to those of Burgundy Pitch. It is however more 
readily softened by heat, and may be almost too soft for applica- 
tion at the temperature of the body. 

RESINA. 

RESIN. Synonyms. — Rosin, Colophony. The residue left after distilla- 
tion of oil of turpentine from the crude oleo-resin (turpentine) of various species 
of Pinus (Nat. Ord. Coniferce). United States. 

Characters. — Translucent, yellowish, brittle, pulverizable. Fracture shin- 
ing. Odor and taste like turpentine. Burns with a yellow flame and much 
smoke. Sp. gr. 1.070 to 1.080. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (1) Three isomeric resinous 
acids, — pinic, sylvic, pimaric. (2) Traces of volatile oil of turpentine. 

Preparations . 

1. Ceratum Resinae. Synonym. — Basilicon ointment; Resin, 
35 ; yellow wax, 15 ; lard, 50. 

2. Emplastrum Resinae. Synony?n. — Adhesive plaster. Resin, 
14 ; lead plaster, 80 ; yellow wax, 6. 

Resin is contained in Emplastum Hydrargyri ; Resin Cerate in Linimen. 
turn Terebinthinae ; Resin Plaster in Emplastrum Arnicse, Emplastrum Bella- 
donnse, and Emplastrum Capsici. 



400 organic materia medica. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Resin is antiseptic and slighly stimulant, and is, therefore, an 
excellent application for indolent ulcers, sores, and wounds. 
Resin soap formed by boiling together in an evaporating dish for 
two hours 1800 gr. of resin, 300 gr. of caustic soda, and 1 pint 
of water, separating the soap by a strainer, and drying on a water- 
bath. It may be used as an emulsifying agent, but the taste is 
very disagreeable. 

TEREBINTHINA CANADENSIS. 

CANADA BALSAM.— Canada Turpentine, or Balsam of Fir. The 
liquid oleo-resin obtained by incising or puncturing the bark of the trunk and 
branches of Abies bahamea (Nat. Ord. Conifers). Canada. 

Characters. — It is pale yellow, faintly greenish, transparent, fluid, of the 
consistence of thin honey. Odor peculiar, agreeable. Taste slightly bitter. 
It slowly dries, forming a transparent mass. Readily soluble in ether, chloro- 
form, or alcohol. 

Composition. — It is an oleo-resin, and contains oils and resins isomeric 
with those of ordinary turpentine (see p. 393). 

Canada balsam is contained in Charta Cantharidis and Collodium 
Flexile. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Canada balsam is rarely used exept for its physical property of 

drying to form an adhesive varnish. It has the same action as 

oil of turpentine. 

SINAPIS. 

1. SINAPIS ALB A.— White Mustard. The seed of Sinapis alba (Nat. 
Ord. Cruciferce). From plants cultivated in the United States. 

Characters. — About T ^ in. in diameter, roundish, pale yellow, very 
finely pitted, hard; internally yellow, oily. Inodorous. Taste pungent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A bland fixed oil. (2) 
Sinalbin and myrosin ; the latter is a ferment, and in contact with water con- 
verts sinalbin, which is a glucoside, into a fixed pungent body called sulphocy- 
anate of acrinyl, glucose and sulphate of sinapin. 

2. SINAPIS NIGRA.— Black Mustard. The seed of Sinapis nigra 
(Nat. Ord. Cruciferce). From plants cultivated in the United States. 

Characters — Scarcely half the size of white mustard seeds. Roundish, 
dark-reddish or grayish-brown, finely pitted, hard ; yellow internally. Inodor- 
ous when dry, even when powdered, but when rubbed with water yielding a 



MUSTARD. 40I 

strong pungent odor and irritating the eyes. Taste very pungent. Resembling 
black mustard seeds. — Colchicum seeds, which are larger, lighter and not quite 
globular. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The same fixed oil as the 
white seeds, about 35 per cent. (2) Sinigrin (which is potassium myronate, a 
potassium salt of myronic acid, which is a glucoside) and myrosin, a ferment 
which on contact with water converts sinigrin into the officinal volatile oil of 
mustard (C 3 H 5 CNS, which is sulphocyanate of allyl), glucose and potassium 
sulphate. The volatile oil is very pungent, and its development on the addi- 
tion of water explains the pungency of ordinary mustard. 

3. OLEUM SIN APIS VOLATILE.— Sulphocyanate of Allyl. (C 3 H 5 
CNS. The volatile oil distilled with water from black mustard seeds after 
expression of the fixed oil. 

Characters. — Pale yellow, intensely pungent and irritant. Sp. gr. 1.017 
to 1. 02 1. Solubility. — I in 50 of water, readily in alcohol and in ether. 

Preparations. 

1. Charta Sinapis. — Black Mustard, Benzin, Solution of Gutta- 
percha. Percolate the mustard with benzin. Remove the powder and 
dry. Add the solution of gutta-percha, and with a brush apply to one 
side of a piece of rather stiff, well-sized paper. 

2. Linimentum Sinapis Compositum. — Volatile oil of mus- 
tard, 3 ; extract of mezereum, 2 ; camphor, 6 ; castor oil, 1 5 ; alcohol, to 
100 is by solution. 

Action of Mustard. 

External. — Mustard is a typical powerful local irritant. 
Thus it first produces dilatation of the vessels, which causes red- 
ness of the skin (rubefacient effect) and a sensation of warmth. 
Because of the irritant action of mustard on the sensory nerves, 
a severe burning pain is soon felt. The irritation of the nerves 
is followed by their paralysis, consequently there is a local loss of 
sensibility, and a diminution both of the pain produced by the 
mustard and of any that may have been present before its appli- 
cation. The irritation of the vessels leads to the transudation of 
plasma through them; this, collecting under the epidermis, raises 
it, and thus vesicles, blebs, or blisters are formed (vesicant 
effect). Mustard is also a counter-irritant (seep. 51); that 
is to say, the stimulation of the cutaneous nerves reflexly leads to 



40 2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

a dilatation of the vessels of the viscera under the seat of appli- 
cation. 

This excitation of the sensory nerves is sufficiently powerful to 
reflexly stimulate the heart and respiration, and some- 
times to restore consciousness after fainting. 

Internal. — Gastro-intesiinal tract \ — Mustard also acts here 
as an irritant. Taken in the usual small quantities as a condi- 
ment, it causes a sense of warmth in the stomach, it moderately 
stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and the peristaltic 
movements, and therefore sharpens the appetite. A dose of one 
to four teaspoonfuls stirred up in a tumbler of water is sufficiently 
irritating to be a direct stomachic emetic, causing prompt vomit- 
ing without the depression which usually attends emetics, because 
the mustard reflexly stimulates the heart and respiration. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — A mustard poultice (equal parts of mustard and 
flaxseed meal) is a very common and efficacious application as an 
irritant and counter-irritant in rheumatism, pleurisy, pneumonia, 
bronchitis, pericarditis, and many inflammatory diseases. In the 
manner already explained, it will, when applied to the skin, 
soothe pain in gastralgia, colic, painful diseases of the chest, 
neuralgia, lumbago, &c. The paper or any of the mustard leaves 
that are sold, moistened in water, form an excellent application. 
Often the local application of mustard over the stomach relieves 
vomiting. A large mustard poultice applied to the legs was 
formerly used as a reflex stimulant in cases of syncope, asphyxia, 
and coma. 

Common colds and febrile conditions, especially in children, 
are often treated by placing the feet and legs or the whole body 
in mustard and warm water (10 to 15 ounces of mustard to every 
15 gallons of water, as hot as can be borne), the object being by 
the cutaneous dilatation to withdraw blood from the inflamed 
part. A mustard sitz bath may be taken at the time of the ex- 
pected period, to induce menstruation. 

Internal. — Mustard is used as a condiment, and also as an 



OIL OF EUCALYPTUS. 403 

emetic. It is especially valuable for poisoning by narcotics, be- 
cause of its reflex stimulant effects. 

OLEUM CAJUPUTI. — Cajuput Oil. The oil distilled from the 
leaves of Melaleuca Cajuputi (Nat. Ord. Myrtacece). Imported from Batavia 
and Singapore. 

Characters. — A transparent, very volatile, limpid, pale bluish-green 
liquid, with a strong, penetrating, camphoraceous odor. Taste, warm, bitter 
aromatic, camphoraceous, and succeeded by a sensation of coldness. Sp. gr. 
about 0.920. Readily soluble in alcohol. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Hydrate of cajuputene, 
isomeric with Borneo camphor (q. v.), 75 per cent. (2) Another oil. 

Impurities. — Copper and other oils. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Action. 

The action of cajuput oil is exactly the same as that of the 
oils of cloves {see p. 409). 

Therapeutics 

External. — Cajuput oil is used as a stimulant, irritant, and 
counter-irritant — usually diluted with sweet oil— for all sorts of 
purposes when any of these effects are needed. Thus it is rubbed 
in for chilblains, myalgia, rheumatic pains, chronic inflammatory 
conditions of the joints or periosteum. It has also been em- 
ployed as a parasiticide for Tinea tonsurans. The only objection 
to its use is its strong smell. 

Internal. — It is occasionally given in dyspepsia, usually com- 
bined with other remedies, for the sake of its carminative, 
stomachic, and antispasmodic effects ; it may be taken on sugar. 

EUCALYPTUS. 
EUCALYPTUS. The leaves of Eucalyptus globulus (Nat. Ord. 
Myrtacece) collected from rather old trees. Australia. 

Characters. — Petiolate, lanceolately scythe-shaped, from 6 to 12 in. long, 
rounded below, tapering above entire, leathery, gray -green, glandular, feather- 
veined between the midrib and marginal veins ; odor strongly camphoraceous ; 
somewhat bitter and astringent. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Eucalypti Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation in alcohol and evaporation. 
Dose, l A to 2 fl. dr. 



404 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

OIL* OF EUCALYPTUS— The volatile oil distilled from the fresh 

leaves of Eucalyptus globulus ■, Eucalyptus amygdalina (Nat. Ord. Myrtacece), 
and probably other species of Eucalyptus, the blue gum tree. 

Characters. — Colorless or pale straw-colored, becoming darker and 
thicker by exposure. Odor aromatic. Taste spicy, pungent, leaving a sensation 
of coldness in the mouth. Neutral. Sp. gr. about 0.900. Solubility. — In an 
equal weight of alcohol. The oils from different species of Eucalyptus vary 
very much. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil, eucalyptol, 
about 70 per cent. It is that portion which in distillation passes over between 
330 and 35 2° F. It is a mixtnre of {a) a terpene (C ]0 H 16 ) and (b) cymene 
(C 10 H U ). It is met with in commerce. (2) A crystallizable resin, probably 
derived from the oil, and yielding ozone. (3) Tannin. (4) An oil isomeric 
with hydrate of cajuputene. It is met with in commerce, and is called crystal- 
lizable eucalyptol, as it solidifies at 32 F. {see p. 403). 

Incompatible. — Alkalies, mineral acids, metallic salts. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

Action. 

External. — Oil of eucalyptus is much less irritant when ap- 
plied externally than other volatile oils, but if its vapor is confined 
it will produce vesication and pustulation. It is powerfully anti- 
septic and disinfectant. Old oil is more antiseptic than new, 
probably from the greater amount of ozone it contains. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. In medicinal doses oil of 
eucalyptus is stomachic, having the same actions as oil of cloves. 
In large doses it produces severe gastro-intestinal irritation, as 
shown by vomiting,, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. 

Circulation. — It, like quinine, arrests the movements of the 
white blood-corpuscles ; and it likewise resembles this drug in its 
antipyretic and its anti-periodic actions, and also, it is said, in 
causing contraction of spleen ; but quinine is in all respects the 
more energetic. In medicinal doses the heart is stimulated by oil 
of eucalyptus, and the blood-pressure rises ; probably these effects 
are reflex from the stomach. After large quantities the action of 
the heart is enfeebled, and temperature falls. 

Respiration. — Small doses slightly accelerate, poisonous doses 
slow, respiration. 

Nervous system. — Large doses are powerfully depressant to the 



ROSEMARY. 405 

brain, to the medulla, and to the spinal cord, abolishing reflex 
action. Death occurs from paralysis of respiration.' 

Mucous membranes, kidneys, and skin, — Like other volatile 
oils, eucalyptus is excreted by all these channels. It imparts its 
odor to and disinfects, the breath and the urine. It stimulates 
the organs by which it is excreted, consequently it is a diapho- 
retic, a stimulating expectorant, a diuretic, and a stimulant to the 
genito-urinary tract. Large doses cause renal congestion. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — It is used as an antiseptic for wounds, sores, and 
ulcers. It is three times as powerful as carbolic acid, and is there- 
fore preferred by some surgeons. A- eucalyptus gauze has been 
prepared as a dressing for wounds, which may be washed with a 
weak solution of the oil in alcohol. An ointment of eucalyptus 
oil 8 pts., iodoform i pt, paraffin and vaseline 40 pts. is applied 
to chancres. An emulsion of the oil is used as an urethral 
injection. It would probably be an efficient parasiticide. 

Internal. — A vapor of the spray of oil of eucalyptus has been 
recommended for diphtheria and .fetid bronchitis, and it is some- 
times given by the mouth to correct the fcetor of the expectora- 
tion. Occasionally it is used for its stomachic, carminative effects, 
especially if the faeces are very foul smelling, and some employ it 
in cystitis and pyelitis. It has been prescribed in septicaemia. 
As an antiperiodic for ague and an antipyretic it is far inferior to 
quinine. 

ROSMARINUS. 

ROSEMARY. The leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis (Nat. Ord. Labi- 
atce). Europe. 

Characters. — About I in. long, rigid, linear, entire, revolute, dark-green 
above, woolly and glandular beneath ; pungently aromatic, somewhat camphor - 
aceous. 

Preparation. 

Vinum Aromaticum. — Lavender, I ; origanum, 1; peppermint, I; 
rosemary, 1 ; sage, I ;- wormwood, I ; stronger white wine to 100. By 
percolation. 



406 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

'OLEUM ROSMARINL— The oil distilled from the flowering tops of 
Rosmarinus officinalis. 

Characters. — A colorless or pale yellow volatile oil. Odor of rosemary. 
Taste w r arm, aromatic. Sp. gr. about 0.900. Soluble in alcohol. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are a terpene and a ^tearoptene. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Oil of rosemary is contained in Linimentum Saponis, Spiritis Odoratus, and 
Tinctura Lavandulae Composita. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Oil of rosemary has an action similar to that of other aro- 
matic volatile oils. It is very commonly used to give a pleasant 
scent to lotions and other preparations which are used externally. 

ARNICA. 

ARNIC^E FLORES. — The flower head of Arnica montana (Nat. Ord. 
Compositce). United States. 

Characters. — About 1 in. broad, depressed-roundish, consisting of a 
scaly involucre in two rows, and a small, flat, hairy receptacle, bearing about 
16 yellow, strap-shaped ray-florets, and numerous yellow, fine-toothed, tubular 
disk-florets, having slender, spinal shaped achenes, crowned by a hairy pappus. 
It has a feeble, aromatic odor, and a bitter, acrid taste. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Arnicae Florum. — Arnica flowers, 20; by maceration 
and percolation in alcohol to 100. 
Dose, 15 to 45 m. 

ARNICA RADIX. — The dried rhizome and rootlets of Arnica mon- 
tana. 

Characters. — 1 to 2 in. long, ^ to ^ in. in diameter, cylindrical, dark 
brown, contorted, rough. Remains of leaves at upper end, wiry rootlets from 
the lower surface. Odor peculiar, aromatic. Taste acrid, bitter. Resembling 
arnica. — Valerian and Serpentary, each having characteristic odor; Veratrum 
Viride, having thicker rootlets. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil. (2) Tan- 
nic acid. (3) A volatile alkaloid, a bitter principle, and a resin. 

Preparations. 
1. Extractum Arnicae Radicis. — By maceration and percolation 
in diluted alcohol, evaporation and addition of glycerin. 
Dose, 5 to 10 gr. 



MEZEREON. 407 

2. Extractum Arnicae Radicis Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation in diluted alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

3. Tinctura Arnicae Radicis. — Arnica root, 10 ; by maceration 
and percolation with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 10 m. 

4. Emplastrum Arnicae. — Extract of Arnica root, 50; resin 
plaster, 100. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of arnica is the same as that of volatile oils gen- 
erally. Externally the tincture is used as an application to bruises, 
but it is very doubtful how far its good effects are owing to the 
spirit, and how far to any increase of cutaneous vascularity due to 
the volatile oil of the arnica. 

It is rarely given internally, but in small doses it is a stom- 
achic, a carminative, and a reflex stimulant, and in larger doses 
causes vomiting and purging. It is excreted by the kidneys 
and mucous membranes, and it has been credited with obscure 
effects on the central nervous system. 

MEZEREUM. 

MEZEREON. — The dried bark of Daphne Mezereum or Daphne 
laureola (Nat. Ord. Thymelacece). Britain. 

Characters. — Long, thin, flattened strips, usually rolled into discs, or 
small quills. Externally covered by a brown corky layer. Internally whitish, 
silky, very tough. Odor none. Taste burning. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A soft, brown resin, 
which is the anhydride of mezereinic acid. (2) An acrid, rubefacient, volatile 
oil. (3) Daphnin, a bitter, inert, glucoside in colorless crystals. (4) A fixed 
oil, inert. 

Preparations. 

1, Extractum Mezerei. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol and evaporation. 

Used in Linimentum Sinapis Compositum. 

2. Extractum Mezerei Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol and evaporation. 
Dose, 5 to 15 m. 



408 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

3. Unguentum Mezerei. — Fluid extract of mezereum, 25 ; lard, 
80; yellow wax, 12. 

Mezereum is contained in Decoctum Sarsaparillse Compositum and Ex- 
tractum Sarsaparillae Compositum Fluidum. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

External. — Mezereon bark has the same actions as volatile 
oils generally. It is a powerful rubefacient and vesicant extern- 
ally, and is used chiefly in the compound mustard liniment, where 
it excites the same effects and is employed for the same purposes 
as the oil of mustard. 

Internal. — It is a gastric stimulant, producing, in large 
doses, vomiting and diarrhoea. 

Class II of Volatile Oils. 
Those used chiefly for their action on the gastro-intestinal tract. 

PYRETHRUM. 

PYRETHRUM. — Synonym. — Pellitory. The dried root of Anacyclus 
Pyrethrum (Nat. Ord. Composifce). Levant. 

Characters. — Unbranched pieces, 2 — 4 in. long, ^ — ^ in. in diameter. 
Bark thick, brown, shrivelled ; studded by dark-colored receptacles for the 
resin. Close fracture, showing radiate surface. Inodorous. Causes a pricking 
sensation in the mouth when chewed. Resembling pyrethrum. — Taraxacum, 
which is darker, and has not a burning taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Volatile oils and resins. 
(2) Inulin, which in many plants replaces starch. 

Preparation. 
Tinctura Pyrethri. — Pyrethrum, 20; by maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol to 100. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Pyrethrum is a powerful sialogogue, and causes a burning sen- 
sation in thfc mouth, followed by numbness and tingling. Small 
quantities give a pleasant taste to tooth powders. 

CARYOPHYLLUS. 
CLOVES. — The unexpanded flowers of Eugenia caryophyllata (Nat. 
Ord. Myrtacetz). Penang, Bencoolen, and Amboyna. 



CLOVES. 409 

Characters. — About l / 2 in. long, consisting of a dark brown, wrinkled, 
subcylindrical, and somewhat angular calyx tube, which tapers below and is sur- 
mounted by four teeth, between which the paler colored petals, enclosing the 
numerous stamens and style, are rolled up in the form of a ball. Odor strong, 
fragrant, and spicy. Taste very pungent and aromatic. It emits oil when 
indented. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Oleum Caryophylli (q. v.). 
(2) Eugenin, a crystalline body. (3) Caryophyllin, a neutral body isomeric 
with camphor. 

Cloves are contained in Vinum opii. 

OLEUM CARYOPHYLLI.— Oil of Cloves. The oil distilled in 
United States. 

Characters. — Colorless when recent, becoming yellowish and then 
brownish. Taste and odor like cloves. Easily soluble in alcohol. Sp. gr. 
about 1.050. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Eugenol (synonym. Eu- 
genic acid) , C 10 H 12 O 2 , which chemically resembles phenol, and forms permanent 
salts with alkalies. (2) A terpene. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Incompatibles. — Lime water, salts of iron, mineral acids and gelatine. 

Action of Cloves and Oil of Cloves. 

Oil of cloves is a typical example of a volatile oil the most 
important actions of which are exerted in the stomach. 

External. — When rubbed into the skin it is stimulant, 
rubefacient, irritant, and counter-irritant, and gives rise 
to considerable vascular dilatation. At first it causes a sensation 
of tingling and pain, which afterwards is replaced by local 
anaesthesia. It is a parasiticide and antiseptic. 

Internal. — Mouth.— -In the mouth, oil of cloves produces the 
same effects as on the skin ; there is a burning sensation accom- 
panied by vascular dilatation and an increased flow of saliva, and 
followed by local anaesthesia. Cloves stimulate the nerves of 
taste, and being volatile and aromatic, those of smell also ; by 
both these means taste is sharpened. 

Stomach — The stimulant effect of cloves is experienced here. 
The vessels are dilated, peristalsis is accelerated, the se- 
cretion of gastric juice is excited, and as cloves are pleasant 

35 



41 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

and aromatic, they do not ordinarily produce nausea; conse- 
quently the appetite is increased. The combined effect of 
these actions is to aid digestive processes — therefore oil of cloves 
is stomachic ; and to facilitate the expulsion of gas — thus it is 
carminative. The stimulation of the gastric nerves to a slight 
extent reflexly affects the heart in the same way as alcohol ; there- 
fore the rate and force of the pulse are moderately in- 
creased. 

Intestines. — Here likewise oil of cloves dilates the vessels, and 
stimulates the secretion and the muscular coat of the intestine, 
consequently colicky pains due to irregular contraction of it are 
relieved, and flatus is expelled. 

Circulation. — Oil of cloves is readily absorbed from the intes- 
tine, circulates in the blood, and is said to increase the number 
of white corpuscles. It may to a slight extent stimulate the 
heart directly, but the greater part of the stimulation of the heart 
excited by it is reflex from the stomach. It is credited with the 
power of arresting painful spasmodic contractions in various parts 
of the body. It can, as we have seen, do this in the intestine, 
and possibly it may have to a slight extent the same action in the 
bronchial tubes, heart, etc. This causes it to be called anti- 
spasmodic. 

Mucous membranes. — Like other volatile oils it is excreted by 
the kidneys, skin, bronchi, and genito-urinary tract, and in pass- 
ing through these structures will act as a stimulating disin- 
fectant to their secretion ; but oil of cloves is never used for 
these purposes. 

Therapeutics of Cloves and Oil of Cloves. 

External. — Oil of cloves is too expensive for frequent ex- 
ternal application, but on account of its local anaesthetic effect it 
has been used for neuralgia. It is employed to give a pleasant 
scent to liniments. 

Internal. — The oil is sometimes dropped into decayed teeth 
to relieve pain. Cloves are freqently employed in cookery for 
their taste, and because they stimulate the appetite and aid diges- 



PIMENTA, 411 

tion. The oil or the infusion (B. P., 1 in 40) may be used medic- 
inally as a stomachic, as a carminative, as an antispasmodic, or to 
relieve colicky pains in indigestion. It will be noticed that oil of 
cloves is sometimes combined with preparations of scammony, of 
castor oil, and of colocynth. This is to prevent the griping these 
purgatives might otherwise cause. 

PIMENTA. 

PIMENTA. — The dried, nearly ripe, full-grown fruit of Eugenia Pi- 
menta, the allspice tree (Nat. Ord. Myrtacece). West Indies. 

Characters. — Dry, light, roundish, % in. or more in diameter, crowned 
with the remains of the calyx in the form of a raised scar-like ring ; pericarp 
roughish, from the presence of oil-glands ; brittle, dark-brown, two-celled, each 
cell containing a brownish-black, somewhat compressed, reniform seed. Odor 
and taste like cloves. Resembling pimenta. — Pepper, which has no calyx ; cu- 
beb, which is stalked. 

Composition. — The chief ingredient is a volatile oil. It is chemically 
the same as that found in cloves. It is officinal (see below). 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

OLEUM PIMENTO.— The oil distilled in United States from the 
fruit of Eugenia Pimenta. 

Characters. — It is colorless, but becomes brown by keeping. Sp. gr. 
about 0.970. Solubility. — Readily in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

Oleum Pimentce is used in Spiritus Myrcise. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The actions and uses of pimenta and its oils are precisely the 
same as those of cloves and oil of cloves. 

PIPER. 

PEPPER. — The dried unripe fruit of Piper nigrum (Nat. Ord. Pipera- 
cece). East Indies. 

Characters. — Globular, J/£ in. in diameter. Thin, blackish brown, peri- 
carp containing a hard, smooth, roundish, yellowish-brown or gray seed. Odor 
aromatic. Taste pungent. Resembling black pepper. — Pimenta, which has a 
calyx; cubeb, which is stalked. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) An oleo-resin. (2) Pi- 
perine. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 



412 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparations. 

1. Oleoresina Piperis. — By percolation with stronger ether, dis- 
tillation and evaporation of the residue . 

Dose, % to i gr. 

2. Piperina. — Piperine. C 17 H 19 N0 3 . A proximate principle of 
feebly alkaloidal power, prepared from pepper, and occurring also in 
other plants of the Nat. Ord. Piper acece. 

Characters. — Colorless, or pale yellowish, shiny, four-sided 
prisms, permanent, odorless and almost tasteless, when first put into the 
mouth, but, on prolonged contact, producing a sharp, biting sensation. 
Neural in reaction, almost insoluble in water, but soluble in 30 parts of 
alcohol. Isomeric with morphine, decomposes into piperic acid and a 
liquid alkaloid piperidine. 

Dose, 1 to 10 gr. 

Action. 

Pepper, because of its volatile oil, acts like other substances 
containing volatile oils ; thus externally it is at first rubefacient 
and counter-irritant, and subsequently it acts as an anodyne. In- 
ternally it increases the secretions of the mouth, and in the 
stomach it is stomachic and carminative. During its excretion it 
stimulates the mucous membrane of the genito-urinary tract. 
Piperine is believed to be a feeble antipyretic and antiperiodic. 

Therapeutics. 

Occasionally pepper is used externally as an irritant for the 
same class of cases as mustard. Internally it may be employed, in 
the form of a gargle, as a stimulant for relaxed conditions of the 
throat. It is taken in the form of a condiment for its stomachic 
properties. The confection or pepper lozenges are given empiri- 
cally to relieve haemorrhoids, ulcers of the rectum, and fissures of 
the anus. 

MYRISTICA. 

NUTMEG. — The dried seed of Myristica fragrans (Nat. Ord. Myristi- 
cacece) divested of its hard coat or shell. Malay Archipelago. 

Characters. — Ovoid, about 1 in. long. Externally grayish-brown, with 
reticulated furrows. Internally grayish- red, marbled with brownish-red veins. 
Odor aromatic. Taste warm, bitter, aromatic. 



OIL OF NUTMEG. 413 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The concrete oil, 25 — 30 
per cent. (2) The officinal volatile oil y 2 — 8 per cent, (see below). 

Nutmeg is contamed in Pulvis Aromaticus, and Tinctura Lavandulae Com- 
posita. 

MACIS. 

MACE. — The arillus of the fruit of Myristica fragrans (Nat. Ord. Myrts- 
ticacece) . 

Characters. — In narrow bands, 1 in. or more long, somewhat branched 
and laked above, united to broader bands below ; brownish-orange ; fatty when 
scratched or pressed ; odor fragrant, taste warm and aromatic. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (1) a volatile oil, in from 7 to 
9 per cent., a greater portion of which is macene, C 10 H 16 . (2) Two fixed oils. 
(3) A peculiar gummy matter similar to amidin. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

OLEUM MYRISTICA.— Volatile oil of nutmeg. The oil distilled 
in United States from nutmegs. 

Characters. — Colorless or pale yellow. Odor and taste of nutmeg. Sp. 
gr. about 0.930. Readily soluble in alcohol. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Myristicen, a terpene. (2) 
Myristicol, a stearoptene. 

Dose, 1 to 3 m. 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Myristicae. Synonym. — Essence of Nutmeg. Oil of 
nutmeg, 3; alcohol, 97. 

Dose, 30 to 60 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of oil of nutmeg is the same as that of other 
aromatic oils. Nutmegs are much employed in cookery for the 
sake of their volatile oil, which is an agreeable stomachic. 

CINNAMOMUM. 

CINNAMON. — The dried inner bark of shoots from the truncated 
stocks or stools of the cultivated cinnamon tree, Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Nat. 
Ord. Lauracece). Ceylon. 

Characters. — Closely rolled quills, ^g in. in diameter, and containing 
several smaller quills, thin, brittle, splintery. Externally dull, light, yellowish- 
brown, with little scars and faint wavy lines. Internally darker brown. Odor 
fragrant. Taste, warm, sweet, aromatic. 



41 4 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) The officinal volatile oil 
(q. v.) (2) Tannin. (3) Sugar and gum. 
Impurity. — Cassia bark. 

Preparations. 

1. Pulvis Aromaticus. — Cinnamon, 35 ; cardamom, 15; ginger, 
35; nutmeg, 15. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. 

2. Extractum Aromaticum Fluidum. — Aromatic powder by- 
maceration and percolation with alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

3. Tinctura Cinnamomi. — Cinnamon, 10 ; alcohol and water to 
100. By percolation. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Cinnamon is contained in Infusum Digitalis, Tinctura Cardamomi Com- 
posita, Tinctura Lavandulae Composita, and Vinum Opii. 

OLEUM CINNAMOMI.— -The oil distilled from cinnamon. 

Characters. — Yellowish, becoming cherry-red on keeping. Sp. gr. 
about 1.040. Odor and taste like cinnamon. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Cinnamomic aldehyde 
(C 6 H 5 C 2 H 2 COH), which makes up the greater part. (2) Cinnamicacid (C 6 H 5 
C 2 H 2 C0 2 H). This exists also in styrax, and in balsams of Tolu and Peru. (3) 
Benzoates. 

Preparations. 

1. Aqua Cinnamomi. — Oil of cinnamon, 2; by percolation with 
cotton and distilled water to 1 000. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. oz. 

2. Spiritus Cinnamomi. — Oil of cinnamon, 10 ; alcohol, 90. 
Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Spirit of cinnamon is contained in Acidum Sulphuricum Aroma- 
ticum. 

Action and Therapeutics. . 

Oil of cinnamon has the same action as other aromatic vola- 
tile oils, and is therefore stomachic and carminative. Cinnamon 
bark in addition has, in virtue of its tannic acid, some astringent 
action, and is consequently a common flavoring stomachic vehicle 
for astringent powders and mixtures, except such as contain iron. 



CAPSICUM. 



CAPSICUM, 



415 



CAPSICI FRUCTUS. Synonym. — African pepper, Cayenne pepper. 
The dried ripe fruit of Capsictim fastigiatum (Nat. Ord., Solanacece). Zanzibar. 

Characters. — J^ to $£ in. long, j£ in. in diameter, shrivelled, conical. 
Consists of a dull red, shining, smooth, brittle, translucent pericarp, enclosing 
several small, roundish, flat seeds. Odor peculiar, pungent. Taste very bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Capsaicin, a crystallizable 
acid substance. (2) Capsicine, a volatile alkaloid smelling like coniine. (3) 
A volatile oil. (4) A resin. (5) Fatty matter. 
- Dried and powdered it constitutes red pepper. 

Impurities. — Various red substances, e. g. red-lead. 

Dose, 1 to 8 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Capsici Fluidum.— Capsicum. By maceration 
and percolation with alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 8 m. 

2. Oleoresina Capsici. — Capsicum. By percolation with stronger 
ether and distillation. Evaporate the residue. 

Dose, j^ to 1 m. 

3. Tinctura Capsici. — Capsicum, 5. Alcohol and water, to 100. 
By percolation. 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

4. Emplastrum Capsici. — Resin plaster and oleo-resin of capsi- 
cum. Cover muslin with the melted plaster, coat it when cool, by brush- 
ing on the oleo-resin. 

Action. 

The action of capsicum is like that of volatile oils generally. 
Thus externally it is a powerful rubefacient, irritant, and counter- 
irritant. Internally in small doses it stimulates the gastric se- 
cretions, causes dilatation of the gastric vessels, and excites the 
muscular coat. It is therefore stomachic and carminative. 

Therapeutics. 

It is used as a condiment. Medicinally it is given as a 
stomachic and carminative in dyspepsia, particularly that of drunk- 
ards when it is required either to excite the appetite and digestion, 
or to cause the evacuation of gas. 



41 6 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 



ZINGIBER. 

GINGER. — The rhizome of Zingiber officinale (Nat. Ord. Zingibera- 
cece). East and West Indies. 

Characters. — Flattish, irregularly branched pieces, usually 3 to 4 in. 
long, each branch marked at its summit by a depressed scar. Externally pale 
buff, striated, fibrous. Fracture mealy, short, rather fibrous. Odor agreeable, 
aromatic. Taste strong, pungent. Resembling ginger. — Turmeric, which is 
yellow. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) An aromatic volatile oil, 
giving the flavor. (2) Several resins and allied bodies. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Zingiberis Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

2. Oleoresina Zingiberis". — By percolation with stronger ether, 
distillation and evaporation of the residue. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 m. 

3. Pulvis Aromaticus. — See Cinnamon, p. 414. 

4. Tinctura Zingiberis. — Ginger, 20. By percolation with alco- 
hol to 100. 

Dose, X to * fl- ^ r * 

5. Syrupus Zingiberis. — Fluid extract of ginger, 2; sugar, 65; 
water to 1 00. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

6. Trochisci Zingiberis. — Tincture of ginger, 200; tragacanth, 
50; sugar, 2000 grs. ; syrup of ginger in sufficient quantity, to make 100 
troches. Each troche contains 2 gr. 

Dose. — Freely. 

Ginger is contained in the compound powder of rhubarb. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Its action is the same as that of other substances containing 
aromatic volatile oils. It is chiefly used as a stomachic, carmina- 
tive, and flavoring agent. 



CARDAMOM. 4 1 7 

CARDAMOMUM. 

CARDAMOM. — The fruit of the Malabar cardamom, Elettaria Carda- 
tnomum (Nat. Ord. Zingiberacece), Malabar. When the seeds are required 
for use the pericarps are rejected. 

Characters. — The pericarp is a three-sided capsule, ^ to 1 in. long, -J. 
to \ in. broad, of a tough, papery character, ovoid, obtusely triangular, shortly- 
beaked, rounded at the base, brownish yellow, longitudinally striated; no odor 
or taste. Seeds */£ in. long, irregularly angular, transversely wrinkled, reddish 
brown externally, whitish within. Odor aromatic. Taste warm, aromatic. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil, which is a 
terpene, C 10 H 16 . (2) A fixed oil. The pericarp is medically inactive. 

Preparations. 

1. Tinctura Cardamomi. — -Cardamom, 15. By maceration and 
percolation with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Pulvis Aromaticus. — See Cinnamon, p. 414. 

3. Tinctura Cardamomi Composita.— Cardamom, 20; cara- 
way, 10; cinnamon, 20; cochineal, 5; glycerine, 60. By percolation, 
with diluted alcohol to 1000. 

Dose, 2 to 4 fl. dr. 

Cardamoms are contained in Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum, Tinc- 
tura Gentianse Composita, Tinctura Rhei Dulcis. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Cardamom, because of its volatile oil, acts like cloves or pep- 
per; therefore it is carminative and stomachic. As it has a 
pleasant taste, and the tincture is of a red color, it much used as a 
coloring and flavoring agent. A good flavoring carminative is 
the Tinctura Carminativa of the Brit. Pharm. Conference. It 
contains cardamom, 600 gr. ; strong tincture of ginger, iX g ; 
oil of cinnamon, oil of caraway, oil of cloves, each 100 tTL \ 
rectified spirit to 20 §. Dose, 2 to 10 Til. 

SUMBUL. 

SUMBUL. Synonym. — Musk Root. The dried transverse sections of 
the root of Ferula Sumbul (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce). Russia and India. 

Characters. — Usually 1 to 3 in. in diameter, ^ to 1 in. thick. Outer 
surface covered with dusky brown, papery, transversely wrinkled bark, with 

36 



41 8 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

short bristly fibres. Internally spongy, coarsely fibrous, dry, farinaceous, dirty 
yellowish brown, mottled with whitish patches and spots of exuded resin. Odor 
musk-like. Taste bitter, aromatic. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) A volatile oil. (2) Two 
resins. (3) Valerianic acid. (4) Angelic acid (g. v.) (5) Sumbulic acid. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Sumbul. — Sumbul, 10; by maceration and percolation 
with alcohol to 1 00. This tincture is said to be useless, unless the fresh 
root is used. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of sumbul is the same as that of volatile oils in 
general. It is only used internally, and is given as a carminative 
in flatulence. It is also employed in much the same class of cases 
as valerian— that is to say, in neurotic conditions, hysteria, &c. 
In Russia it is given chiefly as a reflex stimulant in typhoid fever, 
dysentery, diarrhoea, &c, for the same purposes as musk is em- 
ployed in may other countries. 

OLEUM SUCCINI. 

OLEUM SUCCINI.— Oil of Amber. A volatile oil obtained by de- 
structive distillation of amber and purified by subsequent rectification. 

Characters. — A colorless or pale yellow, thin liquid, having an empy- 
reumetic, balsamic odor, a warm, acrid taste, and a neutral or faintly acid reac- 
tion. Sp. gr. about 0.920. It is readily soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

Action and Uses. 

Oil of amber is stimulant and antispasmodic. It has been em- 
ployed with advantage in amenorrhea, hysteria, whooping-cough, 
and infantile convulsions of intestinal origin. 

LAVANDULA. 

LAVANDER.— The flowers of the Lavandula vera (Nat. Ord. 
Labiates). Southern Europe. 

CHARACTERS. — Calyx tubular, blue-gray, hairy, five-toothed, the upper 
tooth longer and roundish rhomboid ; corolla violet-blue, hairy and glandular 



OIL OF LAVENDER. 419 

on the outside, tubular and two-lipped, the upper lip two-lobed, the lower lip 
three-lobed; stamens four, short in the corolla tube; odor, fragrant; taste* 
bitterish, aromatic, somewhat camphoraceous. 

Preparation. 
Vinum Aromaticum. — see Rosemary, p. 405. 

OLEUM LAVANDULA.— A volatile oil distilled from the flowering 
tops on the whole herb of the Lavandula vera. 

Characters. — A colorless or yellowish or greenish-yellow liquid having 
the aromatic odor of lavender, a pungent, bitter taste and a neutral reaction. 
Sp. gr. about 0.890 ; soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Lavandulae Composita. — Oil of lavender, 8; oil oi 
rosemary, 2; cinnamon, 18; cloves, 4; nutmeg, 10 ; red saunders, 8; 
alcohol, 680; water, 270; diluted alcohol to 1 000. By mixing and 
percolation. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

OLEUM LAVANDULAE FLORUM. — The oil distilled from 
fresh Lavender. 

Characters. — A colorless or pale, yellow, volatile oil. Odor of lavender. 
Taste warm, bitter, aromatic. Sp. gr. about 0.890. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are a terpene and a stearoptene. 

Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

Preparations. 

1. Spiritus Lavandulae. — Oil of lavender flowers, 3; alcohol, 97. 
Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Spiritus Odoratus. Synonym. — Cologne water. Oil of ber- 
gamot, 16 ; oil of lemon, 8 ; oil of rosemary, 8 ; oil of lavender flowers, 4 ; 
oil of orange flowers, 4; acetic ether, 2; water, 158; alcohol, 800. By 
solution and filtration to 1 000. 

Compound tincture of lavender is contained in Liquor Potassium Arseni- 
calis. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Oil of lavender has the same action as other aromatic volatile 
oils. It is used externally as a pleasant stimulating component 
of liniments, and most red lotions {see p. 150) are colored with 
it. Internally, especially in the form of the compound tincture, it 



420 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

makes a very agreeable gastric stimulant, carminative and color- 
ing agent. 

OLEUM BERGAMII. 

OIL OF BERGAMOT. — A volatile oil extracted by mechanical 
means from the rind of the fresh fruit of Citrus Bergamia var. vulgaris (Nat. 
Ord. Aurantiacece) . 

Characters. — A greenish-yellow, the liquid of a peculiar, very fragrant 
odor, an aromatic, bitter taste, and a slightly acid reaction, sp. gr. 0.850 to 
0.890. It is soluble in alcohol and in glacial acetic acid. 

Oil of bergamot is contained in Spiritus Odoratus. 

MENTHA PIPERITA. 

PEPPERMINT. — The leaves and tops of Mentha piperita (Nat. Ord. 
Labiatce). United States. 

Characters. — Leaves about two inches long, petiolate, ovale-lanceolate, 
acute, sharply serrate, glandular, nearly smooth ; branches quadrangular, often 
purplish ; flowers in terminal, conical spikes, with a tubular, five-toothed, often 
purplish calyx, a purplish four-lobed corolla, and four short stamens ; odor, 
aromatic ; taste, pungent, cooling. 

Preparations. 

1. Spiritus Menthae Piperitae. — Oil of peppermint, 10; pepper- 
mint, I. By maceration and percolation with alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

2. Vinum Aromaticum. — see Rosemary, (p. 405). 

Spiritus Menthce Piperitce is contained in Mistura Rhei et Sodae. 

OLEUM MENTHA PIPERITA.— The volatile oil distilled from 
peppermint. 

Characters. — Colorless or greenish-yellow, thickening and becoming 
reddish with age. Odor like that of peppermint. Taste aromatic, followed by 
a sense of coldness. Sp. gr. about 0.900. 

Composition.— The chief constituents are — (1) Menthene (C 10 H 18 ), the 
liquid terpene. (2) Menthol \ the solid stearoptene (q. v.). 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Preparations, 

1. Aqua Menthae Piperitae. — Oil of peppermint, 2. By perco 
lation with cotton and distilled water to 1 000. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. oz. 

2. Spiritus Menthae Piperitae. — See above. 
Dose, 5 to 15 m. 



SPEARMINT. 421 

"3. Trochisci Menthae Piperitee. — Oil of peppermint, 15; sugar, 
1200 grs. ; mucilage of tragacanth to make 100 troches. 
Dose, Freely. 

Oil of peppermint is contained in Pilulae Rhei Compositse. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of oil of peppermint is the same as that of volatile 
oils generally, but the cool, numb feeling often produced by vol- 
atile oils after the sensation has passed off is especially well marked 
with oil of peppermint ; and this effect, which is due to the men- 
thol in it, has caused it to be applied externally in neuralgia. 
Like many other volatile oils it is a powerful antiseptic. 

Internally it is a powerful stomachic and carminative, is often 
used as such, and also as a flavoring agent. 

MENTHA VIRIDIS. 

SPEARMINT. — The leaves and tops of Mentha viridis (Nat. Ord., 
Labiatce). United States. 

Characters. — Leaves about 2 inches long, sub-sessile, lance-ovate, acute 
serrate, glandular, nearly smooth ; branches quadrangular, mostly light green ; 
flowers in terminal, interrupted, narrow, acute spikes, with a tubular, sharply 
fine-toothed calyx, a light purplish, four-lobed corolla, and four rather long 
stamens ; aromatic and pungent. 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Menthae Viridis. — Oil of spearmint, 10 ; spearmint, 1. 
By maceration in alcohol and nitration to 1 00. 
Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

OLEUM MENTHA VIRIDIS.— The volatile oil distilled from 
Spearmint. 

Characters. — Very like oil of peppermint. Sp. gr. about 0.900. 
Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Menthene, the same ter- 
pene as in peppermint. (2) Caruol (C 10 H 14 O), a stearoptene isomeric with 
thymol (q. v.). 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Preparations. 

1. Aqua Menthae Viridis. — Oil of peppermint, 2. By percola- 
tion with cotton and distilled water to 1 000. 

Dose, yi to 2 fl. oz. 

2. Spiritus Menthae Viridis. [See above). 



42 2 organic materia medica. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

These are the same as those of oil of peppermint, but oil of 
spearmint is not so agreeable. 

ANISUM. 

ANISE. — The fruit of Pimpinella Anisum (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce). 
Southern Europe. 

Characters. — Anise fruit, with exception of the Russian variety, which 
is shorter, is about ^ in. in length, oval-oblong, grayish-brown in color, and 
the whole surface is covered with short hairs. The two mericarps are united 
and attached to a common stalk ; each is traversed by five pale slender ridges, 
and its transverse section exhibits about fifteen vittse. Odor agreeable, aro- 
matic. Taste sweetish, spicy. Resembling anise. — Conium, which has single 
mericarps, smooth, grooved upon the face, and having crenate ribs and no 
vittae. 

Composi i ion. — The chief constituent is the officinal volatile oil (q. v). 

ILLICIUM. 

STAR- ANISE. — The fruit of Illicium anisatum. (Nat. Ord. Magno- 
liacece). Asia and America. 

Characters. — The fruit is pedunculate, and consists of eight stellately 
arranged carpels, about yi. m - l° n g» brown, dehiscent in the upper suture, inter- 
nally red-brown, glossy, and with a single, flattish, oval, glossy, brown-yellow 
seed; odor, anise-like; taste of the carpels sweet and aromatic, and of the 
seeds oily. Resembling star-anise. — Illicium religiosum, of which the carpels 
are more woody, shriveled, and have a thin curved beak, a faint clove like 
odor and an unpleasant taste. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Oleum anisi may be distilled from this as well as from Pimpinella 
Anisum. 

OLEUM ANISI.— The volatile oil distilled in Europe from the 
anise. 

Characters. — Colorless or very pale yellow, with the odor of the fruit 
and an aromatic, sweetish taste. That from the Pimpinella Anisum solidifies 
between 50 and 6o° F. ; that from Illicium anisatum (star-anise) at about 
34 F. Sp. gr. 0.976 to 0.990. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A terpene, 20 per cent. 
(2) A stearoptene, anethol, 80 per cent. (C 10 H 12 O 4 ). 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 



FENNEL. 423 

Preparations. 

1. Aqua Anisi. — Oil of anise, 2. By percolation with cotton and 
distilled water to 1 000. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. oz. 

2. Spiritus Anisi. — Oil of anise, 10; alcohol, 90. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Oil of anise is contained in Tinctura Opii Camphorata and Trochisci 
Glycyrrhizse et Opii. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of oil of anise is the same as that of aromatic oils 
generally. It is specially used to get rid of flatulence in children, 
and, on account of its slightly expectorant action, as a basis of 
cough mixtures. 

CORIANDRUM. 

CORIANDER. — The fruit of Coriandrum sativum (Nat. Ord. Umbelli- 
ferce). Europe. 

Characters. — Nearly globular, and consisting of two closely united 
hemispherical mericarps, crowned by the calyx teeth and stylopod, \ in. in 
diameter, brownish yellow, hard, faintly ribbed with both primary and second- 
ary ridges. The mericarps each enclose a lenticular cavity, and each is fur- 
nished on its commissural surface with two brown vittae. Taste agreeable, 
mild, aromatic. Odor pleasant when bruised. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the officinal volatile oil (q v.). 

Coriander is contained in Confectio Sennae. 

OLEUM CORIANDRI. — A volatile oil distilled from Coriander. 
Characters. — Colorless or pale yellow, with the odor and taste of the 
fruit. It is isomeric with Borneo camphor (q. v.). Sp. gr. about 0.870. 
Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Oil of coriander is contained in Syrupus Sennae. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Oil of coriander has the same action as other volatile oils, It 
is chiefly used as a stomachic and carminative, and to disguise 
the taste of rhubarb and senna. 

FCENICULUM. 

FENNEL. — The fruit of Foeniculum vulgare (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce) . 
Malta. 

Characters. — £ to f in. long, ovoid-oblong, curved, smooth, greenish 



424 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

brown or brown, capped by a conspicuous stylopod and two styles. Odor 
aromatic. Taste aromatic, sweet. Fruit readily separated into its two meri- 
carps, each of which has five ridges, of which the lateral are the broadest; 
four vittae in the grooves, and two on the commissure. Resembling fennel. — 
Conium fruit (fennel is larger and has prominent vittae), caraway and anise 
fruits. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is a volatile oil probably identical 
with oil of anise. 

Fennel is contained in Pulvis Glycyrrhizse Compositus. 

OLEUM FCENICULI.— A volatile oil distilled from Fennel. 
Characters. — A colorless, or yellowish liquid, having a characteristic 
odor, a sweetish, mildly warm taste, and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. not less 

than 0.960. 

Preparation. 

Aqua Fceniculi. — Oil of Fennel, 2 ; By percolation with cot- 
ton and distilled water to 1000. 
Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

Oil of fennel is contained in Spiritus Juniperi Compositus. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
The same as those of oil of anise or of coriander. 

CARUM. 

CARAWAY.— The fruit of Carum Carvi (Nat. Ord. Umbellifera). 
England and Germany. 

Characters. — The fruit is usually separated into its two mericarps, each 
about \ in long, slightly curved, tapering at each end, brown, with five pale 
longitudinal ridges; in each of the intervening spaces is a large conspicuous 
vitta. Odor agreeable, aromatic. Taste pleasant, sweetish spicy. Resembling 
caraway. — Conium and fennel. Known by the small ridges and the spicy 
taste of caraway. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the volatile oil (q. v.). 

Caraway is contained in Tinctura Cardamomi Composita. 

OLEUM CARL— The volatile oil distilled from Caraway. 

Characters. — Pale yellow, with odor and taste like the fruit. Sp. gr. 
about 0.920. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Caruene, a terpene. (2) 
Caruol (C 10 H 14 O), isomeric with thymol (q. v.). 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Oil of caraway is contained in Spiritus Juniperi Compositus. 



pennyroyal. 425 

Action and Therapeutic-. 
The action and uses of oleum cari are the same as those of 
other aromatic volatile oils. It is employed as a carminative, 
stomachic and flavoring agent. 

SAMBUCUS. 

ELDER. — The flowers of Sambucus canadensis (Nat. Ord., Caprifoli- 
acece) United States. 

Characters. — The flowers are on level-topped, five-branched cyme?, have 
a superior, minutely five-toothed calyx and a cream-colored, wheel-shaped, five- 
lobed corolla, with five stamens on the short tube ; odor peculiar ; taste sweet- 
' ish, aromatic, slightly bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A resin. (2) Valerianic 
acid. (3) A minute amount of a volatile oil. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Elder flowers are used to flavor medicines. 

HEDEOMA. 

PENNYROYAL. — The leaves and tops of Hedeoma pulegioides (Nat. 
Ord. Labiate). United Stav 

Characters. — Leaves opposite, short-petioled, about */ 2 in. long, oblong- 
oval, obscurely serrate, glandular beneath; branches roundish-quadrangular; 
flowers in small, axillary cymules, with a tubular-ovoid, two-lipped and five- 
toothed calyx, and a pale-blue, spotted, two-lipped corolla, containing two 
sterile and two fertile, exserted stamens; odor, strong, mint-like; taste, warm 
and pungent. 

OLEUM HEDEOMA.- A volatile oil distilled from Hedeoma. 
Characters. — A colorless or yellow liquid, of a pungent, mint-like odor 
and taste. Sp. gr. about 0.940. It is readily soluble in alcohol. 

Action and Uses. 

Pennyroyal is a gentle stimulant aromatic, and may be given 
in flatulent colic and sick stomach. 

ABSINTHIUM. 

WORMWOOD. — The leaves and tops of Artemisia Absinthium (Nat. 
Ord., Composites}, United States. 

Characters . — Leaves about 2 in. long, hoary, silky-pubescent, petiolate, 



426 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

roundish-triangular in outline, pinnately two or three cleft, with the segments 
lanceolate, the terminal ones spatulate, bracts three-cleft or entire ; heads nu- 
merous, subglobose, with numerous, small, pale yellow flowers, all tubular and 
without pappus ; odor, aromatic ; taste, persistently bitter. 

Composition. — The principal constituents are — (1) a volatile oil, (2) a 
bitter resin. 

Dose, io to 40 gr. 

Wormwood is used in Vinum Aromaticum. 

Class III of Volatile Oils. 
Those used chiefly for their action on the heart and central nervous system. 

VALERIANA. 

VALERIAN. — The rhizome and rootlets of Valeriana officinalis (Nat. 
Ord. Valerianacece). Collected in autumn from plants growing wild or culti- 
vated in Europe. 

Characters. — Short, erect rhizome, entire or sliced. Externally dark 
yellowish brown, giving off many slender, brittle, shrivelled rootlets, 3 to 4 in. 
long. Internally whitish. Odor developed in drying, strong, peculiar, disa- 
greeable. Taste unpleasant, camphoraceous, bitter. Resembling valei'ian. — 
Serpentary, arnica, green hellebore ; but valerian is known by its odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil, composed 
of a terpene, valerene (C 10 H 16 ), and valerol, which consists chiefly of valerian 
camphor (C 12 H 20 O), but contains a little resin. (2) Valerianic acid, HC 5 H 9 
2 . It exists in many plants, and in cod-liver oil. The amount of it in valerian 
increases by keeping, while that of the oil decreases. It can be derived from 
amylic alcohol, C 5 H 11 OH(valeryl aldehyde). It is colorless, oily with the odor 
of valerian, and strongly acid, with a burning taste. Solubility. — 1 in 30 of 
water ; easily in alcohol and ether. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. of the root powdered. 

Preparations. 

1. Abstractum Valerianae. — By maceration and percolation with 
alcohol and evaporation, addition of sugar of milk. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

2. Extractum Valerianae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

3. Tinctura Valerianae. — Valerian, 20; by maceration and per- 
colation with alcohol and water to 100. 

Dose, l A to 2 fl. dr. 



VALERIAN. 427 

4. Tinctura Valerianae Ammoniata. — Valerian, 20 ; by macer- 
ation and percolation in aromatic spirit of ammonia to 100. 
Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

OLEUM VALERIAN^.— A volatile oil distilled from Valerian. 

Characters. — A greenish or yellowish, thin liquid, becoming darker and 
thicker by age and exp >sure to air, having the characteristic odor of valerian, 
an aromatic and somewhat camphoraceous taste, and a slightly acid reaction. 
Sp. gr. about 0.950. It is readily soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

AMMONII VALERIAN AS.— NH 4 C 5 H 9 2 . 

Source. — By saturating valerianic acid by gaseous ammonia, obtained 
from a mixture of chloride of ammonia and lime, and crystallization. 

Characters. — Colorless or white quadrangular plates, deliquescent in 
moist air, having the odor of valerianic acid, a sharp, sweetish taste, and a 
neutral reaction. Very soluble in water and in alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 8 gr. 

FERRI VALERIANAS.— Fe 2 (C 5 H 9 2 ) 6 . 

Source. — By precipitating a diluted solution of tersulphate of iron, with a 
solution of sodium valerianate and washing the precipitate. 

Characters. — A dark tile-red, amorphous powder, permanent in dry air, 
having a faint odor of valerianic acid, and a mild styptic taste. Insoluble in 
cold, but readily soluble in hot water. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

ZINCI VALERIANAS.— Zn(C 5 H 9 2 ) 2 . 

Source. — Mix hot solutions of sulphate of zinc and valerianate of sodium, 
evaporate and valerianate of zinc crystallizes out. Solubility. — 1 in 100 of 
water, I in 40 of alcohol. 

Characters. — Pearly scales with a feeble odor of valerian and a metallic 
taste, and an acid reaction. 

Incompatibles. — All acids, soluble carbonates, most metallic salts, vege- 
table astringents. 

Dose, y 2 to 3 gr. 

Action. 

Neither valerianic acid, valerianate of ammonium, valerianate 
of iron, nor valerianate of zinc is known to have any action. 

Valerian itself acts in virtue of its volatile oil, which has the 
same properties as other volatile oils. Valerian is therefore an 
irritant when applied externally; internally it stimulates the 
mouth, stomach, and intestines ; consequently it increases the ap- 



428 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

petite and the vascularity, the secretion, and the peristaltic action 

of the stomach and intestines ; and in its excretion, which takes 

place chiefly through the bronchial mucous membrane, kidneys 

and genito-urinary mucous membrane, it excites the flow of fluids 

excreted through these parts. Acting reflexly from the stomach, 

it stimulates the circulation rather more powerfully than most 

volatile oils. 

Therapeutics. 

Preparations of valerian, or still better the oil (2 to 51TL) sus- 
pended in mucilage with cinnamon water, are often given as 
carminatives in cases of flatulence, and as reflex stimulants in 
fainting, palpitation, &c. Valerian and valerianates sometimes 
relieve neuralgia, and they are often prescribed for hysteria and 
other neurotic conditions, but frequently without benefit 

CYPRIPEDIUM. 

Ladies' Slipper. — The rhizome and rootlets of Cypripedium pubescens and 
of Cypripedium parviflorum (Nat. Ord. Orchidacece). United States. 

Characters. — Horizontal, bent, 4 in. long; about y% in. thick; closely 
covered below with simple, wiry rootlets varying from 4 to 20 in. in length ; 
brittle, dark-brown or orange-brown; odor, faint but heavy; taste, sweetish, bit- 
ter and somewhat pungent. 

Composition. — It contains — (1) A volatile oil. (2) a volatile acid. (3) 
Two resins. (4) Tannic and gallic acids. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Cypripedii Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 15 to 30 m. 

Action and Uses. 
Ladies' Slipper is a gentle, nervous stimulant, resembling 
Valerian in its action. It has been used for nervous diseases, 
epilepsy, hypochondriasis and neuralgia. 

ASAFCETIDA. 
ASAFETIDA.— A gum-resin obtained by incision into the living root 
of Ferula Narthex, of Ferula Scorodosma, and probably other species (Nat. 
Ord. Umbellifera). Afghanistan and the Punjaub. 



ASAFCETIDA. 429 

Characters. — Usually in irregular masses, composed of tears agglutinated 
together by darker colored, softer material. When broken or cut, the exposed 
surface has an amygdaloid appearance ; the fractured tears are opaque, milk- 
white at first, but become first purplish pink and finally dull yellowish brown. 
Odor strong, alliaceous, persistent. Taste bitter, acrid, alliaceous. Asafetida 
forms a white emulsion with water. The fractured surface of a tear, on being 
touched with nitric acid, becomes a fine green. Resembling asafetida. — Gal- 
banum, ammoniacum, and benzoin, distinguished by their peculiar odors, which 
differ markedly from that of asafetida. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil, 5 per cent., 
the most important ingredient of which is the essential oil of garlic, persulphide 
of allyl (C 3 H 5 ) 2 S. This gives asafetida its very unpleasant odor. (2) Bassorin 
resin, 65 per cent. (3) Ferulic acid. (4) Gum, 25 per cent. 

Impurities. — Earthy matter. 

Preparations. 

1. Emplastrum Asafcetidae. — Asafetida, 35; lead plaster, 35 ; 
galbanum, 15; yellow wax, 15; alcohol, 120. By digestion, straining, 
and evaporation. 

2. Mistura Asafcetidae. — Asafetida, 4; water, 100. 
Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. oz. 

3. Pilulae Aloes et Asafcetidae. See Aloes, p. 378. 

4. Pilulae Asafcetidae. — Asafetida, 300 ; soap, 100 grs. ; to make 
100 pills. Each pill contains 3 gr. 

Dose, 1 to 4 pills. 

5. Pilulae Galbani Compositae. — Galbanum, 150; myrrh, 150; 
asafetida, 50 grs. ; syrup, a sufficient quantity ; to make 100 pills. 

Dose, 1 to 4 pills. 

6. Tinctura Asafcetidae. — Asafetida, 20; By maceration with 
alcohol, and filtration to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

7. Mistura Magnesias et Asafcetidae. — Synonym. — Dewees' 
Carminative. See Magnesia, p. 136. 

Action. 

Both internally and externally, asafetida, in virtue of its vol- 
atile oil, acts like volatile oils generally. Its action as a stimulant 
to the intestinal muscle is especially well marked, hence it is com- 



430 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

bined with aloes in Pilulae Aloes et Asafoetidae ; and the enema, 
30 gr. in 4 fl. oz. of water, will relieve flatus. Owing to its con- 
taining oil of garlic it is extremely nasty, and therefore it is not, 
like many volatile oils, available as a condiment. Its taste is 
credited with some mental effect in cases of hysteria. 

Therapeutics. 
Asafetida is not used externally. Internally it is prescribed 
to aid the action of other purgatives, and also to stimulate the 
muscular coat to expel flatus. It may be given by the mouth or 
as the enema. Partly on account of its reflex stimulating effect, 
but also on account of its very nasty taste, it is used to control 
hysterical, emotional, and other mental disturbances, but it often 
fails. For this purpose it may be combined with valerian. Cases 
of malingering may sometimes be cured by making the patient 
take, three times a day, an effervescing draught containing a few 
minims of each of the tinctures of valerian and asafetida. The 
effervescence makes the nasty taste of these medicines " repeat " 
in the mouth for some time after taking them. Asafetida oil 
would in the course of its excretion disinfect the urine and the 
expectoration, but its smell forbids its use for these purposes. 

GALBANUM. 

GALBANUM. — A gum-resin obtained from Ferula galbaniflua (Nat. 
Ord. Umbelliferce), and probably other species. India and the Levant. 

Characters. — Tears or masses of agglutinated tears. Tears roundish, 
about the size of a pea, yellowish brown or yellowish green. Translucent, 
rough, and dirty. Hard and brittle in the cold, softening with heat and becom- 
ing sticky. Masses contain pieces of root, stem, &c. They are hard, compact, 
yellowish brown. Odor peculiar, aromatic. Taste bitter, unpleasant. Resem- 
bling galbanum. — Ammoniacum, asafoetida, benzoin ; known by their different 
odors. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Volatile oil, 6 to 9 per 
cent., isomeric with turpentine, C 10 H 16 . (2) A sulphurous resin, 60 to 67 per 
cent. (3) Gum, 19 to 22 per cent. ^4) Umbelliferone. 

Preparation. 
Emplastrum Galbani. — Galbanum, 16; turpentine, 2; Burgundy 
pitch, 6 : lead plaster, 76. 






AMMONIAC. 43I 

Galbanum is contained in Pilulge Galbani Composite, Emplastrum Asa- 
fcetidge ; see Asafoetida, p. 429. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Galbanum acts like other substances containing volatile oils ; 
it is usually combined with ammoniacum or asafetida. It is used 
externally as a plaster for its irritant effect, to aid the absorption 
of old inflammatory products, and internally it is given with 
asafetida as a carminative. 

AMMONIACUM. 

AMMONIAC. — A gum-resin obtained from the stem (after being 
punctured by beetles) of Dorema Amt?toniacum (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce), 
Persia and the Punjaub. 

Characters. — Small roundish tears, or masses of agglutinated tears ; 
pale brown externally, darkening on keeping, milky white and opaque inter- 
nally. Hard and brittle when cold, with a dull waxy fracture, but softening 
with heat. Odor faint, peculiar, non-alliaceous. Taste bitter, acrid. Forms 
a nearly white emulsion with water. Resembling ammoniacum. — Asafoetida, 
galbanum, benzoin, known by odor. 

Composition. — The chief ingredients are — (1) Volatile oil, 4 per cent. 
(2) Resin, 70 per cent. (3) Gum, 20 per cent. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Emplastrum Ammoniaci. — Ammoniac, 100; diluted acetic 
acid, 140. By digestion, and evaporation. 

2. Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro. 

See Mercury, p. 73. 

3. Mistura Ammoniaci. — Ammoniac, 4; water added gradually 
to 100. It forms a milk-like emulsion. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
The actions of ammoniacum are precisely the same as those 
of volatile oils generally. It is employed externally to aid, by its 
mildly irritating effects, the absorption of chronic inflammatory 
products, and internally in chronic bronchitis with offensive ex- 
pectoration for the sake of the remote disinfectant expectorant 
effect that it has, in the course of its excretion through the bron- 
chial mucous membrane. 



432 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 



MYRRHA, 



MYRRH. — A gum-resin obtained from the stem of Balsamodendron 
Myrrha (Nat. Ord. Burseracece). Collected in Arabia and Abyssinia. 

Characters. — Roundish or irregularly formed tears or masses of agglu- 
tinated tears, varying very much in size. Externally reddish-brown or reddish- 
yellow ; dry, covered with a fine powder; brittle. Their fractured surface is 
irregular, somewhat translucent, and oily. Odor agreeable, aromatic. Taste 
aromatic, acrid, bitter. Insoluble in water; when rubbed up with it, forms an 
emulsion. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Myrrhin, a resin, 35 per 
cent. (2) Myrrhol (C 10 H u O), a volatile oil, 2 per cent. (3) Gum, 60 per 
cent. (4) A bitter principle. 

Impurities. — Many varieties of gum and gum-resins. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Tinctura Myrrhae. — Myrrh, 20; by maceration with alcohol 
and filtration to 1 00. 

Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Pilulae Aloes et Myrrhae. 
See Aloes, p. 379. 

Myrrh is contained in Mistura Ferri Composita, Pilulae Rhei Com- 
positae, Pilulae Ferri Compositae, Pilulae Galbani Compositae, and Tinctura Aloes 
et Myrrhae. 

Action. 

External. — Both externally and internally, myrrh has the 
same action as other substances containing a volatile oil. It is a 
mild disinfectant, and a stimulant to sores and ulcers. 

Internal. — It has the same effects in the mouth. It is a 
stomachic carminative, exciting the appetite, the flow of 
gastric juice, and the vascularity and peristalsis of the stomach 
and intestines. The number of leucocytes in the blood is said to 
be increased by the administration of myrrh. It is excreted by 
mucous membranes, especially the genito-urinary and the bron- 
chial, and it stimulates and disinfects their secretions in its pass- 
age through them.. Thus it becomes an expectorant, a uterine 
stimulant, and an emmenagogue. 



balsam of peru. 433 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Occasionally myrrh has been employed as a 
stimulant to sores and ulcers. 

Internal. — It is, in the form of ^ 3 °f tne tincture diffused 
through 5j of water, used as a mouth wash and gargle for sore 
spongy gums, relaxed throat, and other similar conditions, for 
which it is often combined with borax, as in the following 
formula : — Myrrh, 1 ; eau de Cologne, 16 ; borax, 1 ; water, 3 ; 
syrup, 3. It is frequently given with purgatives for the sake of 
its carminative and stomachic properties. It is also commonly 
combined with iron when this drug is given for anaemia, but the 
reason for this is not clear. It is prescribed for amenorrhoea, 
and has been given for cystitis, and as a disinfectant expectorant 
for chronic bronchitis. 

Class IV of Volatile Oils. 
Those used chiefly for their action on the bronchial mucous membrane. 

BALSAMUM PERUVIANUM. 

BALSAM OF PERU. — A balsam exuded from the trunk of Myroxy- 
lon Pereirce (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce), after the bark has been beaten, scorched, 
and removed. From Salvador in Central America. 

Characters. — A liquid about as viscid as treacle, nearly black in bulk ; 
in thin layers orange or reddish brown, and transparent. Odor balsamic. 
Taste disagreeable, burning. Insoluble in water, soluble in chloroform or 
spirit. Sp. gr. 1. 135 to 1.150. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (1) A volatile oil. This is 
present in large quantities; it consists of cinnamon (cinnamate of benzyl), 
styracin (cinnamate of cinnamyl), C 8 H 7 COOC 9 H 9 , peruvin (benzyl alcohol), 
styrone (cinnamic alcohol), and benzoate of benzyl. (2) Cinnamic acid, C 8 
H 7 COOH (see p. 414). (3) Benzoic acid. (4) Resins. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. or more, made into an emulsion with mucilage or 
yolk of egg. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

External. — Like most substances containing a volatile oil, 
balsam of Peru is a disinfectant, and also a stimulant when rubbed 
into the skin or applied to raw surfaces. Formerly it was much 
used for these purposes, chiefly as an application to indolent sores 

37 



434 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

and chronic eczema. A mixture of balsam of Peru x part, lard 7 
parts, is very useful for sore nipples and cracked lips. Now it is 
not often employed externally except as antiparasitic for pediculi, 
scabies, and ringworm. An ointment consisting of balsam of 
Peru 20, olive oil 50, petroleum 100 parts, may be used. For 
scabies it should be applied in the way already described for 
sulphur ointment ; it is a more agreeable preparation. 

Internal. — Like most volatile oils it is carminative and stom- 
achic, and after absorption is excreted by, and stimulates and dis- 
infects the mucous membranes. For this reason it is used as an 
expectorant in chronic bronchitis. It is also excreted by the 
skin and the kidneys. 

BALSAMUM TOLUTANUM. 

BALSAM OF TOLU. — A balm which exudes from the trunk of 
Myroxylon toluifera (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce) after incisions have been made 
into the bark. New Granada. 

Characters. — A reddish-yellow, soft, tenacious solid, becoming hard by 
keeping and brittle in the cold. A lens shows microscopic crystals of cinnamic 
acid. Very fragrant odor. Taste aromatic. Soluble in spirit, not in water, 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (1) Toulene (C 10 H 16 ). (2) 
Benzoic acid. (3) Cinnamic acid. (4) Resins. 

Dose, 10 to 20 gr. as an emulsion with mucilage or yolk of egg. 

Preparations. 

1. Syrupus Tolutanus. — Balsam of Tolu, 4; and sugar 65; dis- 
tilled water to 100. (Contains very little tolu, as that is almost insoluble 
in syrup) . 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl oz. 

2. Tinctura Tolutana. — Balsam of Tolu, 10. By maceration 
with alcohol and filtration to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. The tolu is precipitated by adding water, 
therefore it should be suspended with mucilage. 

Balsam of Tolu is contained in Pilulae Phosphori and Tinctura Benzoini 
Composita. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Although it has an action in all respects similar to that of 
balsam of Peru, it is only used as an expectorant in cough mix- 
tures. 



STORAX, JUNIPER. 435 



STYRAX. 



STORAX. — A balsam prepared from the inner bark of Liquidambar 
orien talis (Nat. Ord. Hamamelacece). Asia Minor. 

Characters. — A brownish-yellow, semi-fluid balsam. Odor strong, 
agreeable. Taste balsamic. 

Composition. -The chief constituents are — (1) Styrol, a volatile oil 
(C 8 H 8 ). (2) Cinnamic acid (C 8 H 7 COOH), colorless, odorless, crystalline, 
can be oxidized to benzoic acid, is also found in cinnamon, and balsams of 
Tolu and Peru. (3) Styracin, which is cinnamate of cinnamyl (C 8 H 7 - 
COOC 9 H 9 ). (4) Two resins. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Storax is contained in Tinctura Benzoini Composita. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Storax has the same action as balsams of Tolu and Peru 
and benzoin, and may be employed for the same purposes. It is 
not often given internally except in the compound tincture of 
benzoin. Mixed with an equal part of olive oil it may be used to 
kill the Scabies hominis and pediculi. 

Class V. of Volatile Oils. 
Those used chiefly for their action on the kidneys and genito-urinary tract. 

JUNIPERUS. 

JUNIPER. — The fruit of Juniperus communis. (Nat. Ord., Coniferce). 

Characters. — Nearly globular, about \ of an inch in diameter, dark 
purplish, with a bluish-gray bloom, a three-rayed furrow at the apex, internally 
pulpy, greenish-brown, containing three ovate, somewhat triangular, bony, 
seeds, with several large oil-glands on the surface ; odor aromatic ; taste sweet, 
bitterish and slightly acid. North Europe. 

OLEUM JUNIPERI.— A volatile oil distilled from juniper. 
Characters. — Colorless or pale yellow. Odor characteristic. Taste 
warm, aromatic. Sp. gr. about 0.870. Soluble in 12 parts of alcohol. 

Composition. — Oil of juniper is a terpene isomeric with oil of turpentine, 



^10^16* 



Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

Preparations. 

1. Spiritus Juniperi. — Oil of juniper, 3; alcohol, 97. 
Dose, 30 to 60 m. 



436 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Spiritus Juniperi Compositus. — Oil of juniper, 10; oil of 
caraway, 1 ; oil of fennel, I ; alcohol, 3000 ; water to 5000. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action. 

Oil of juniper has much the same action as oil of turpentine; 
but it is not so liable to upset the digestion ; and although it is a 
powerful renal stimulant and diuretic it does not easily cause 
haematuria and albuminuria. 

Therapeutics. 

It is not used externally. Occasionally it is given as a pleas- 
ant carminative and stomachic, but its main use is as a diuretic in 
heart disease, hepatic ascites, and chronic Bright' s disease. It 
certainly markedly increases the quantity of the urine, which it 
causes to smell like violets. As a constituent of Hollands and gin, 
these are good forms of alcohol for persons suffering from the 
above diseases. 

BUCHU. 

BUCHU. Synonym,. — Bucco. The leaves of — (1) Barosma betulina. 
(2) Barosma crenulata. (3) Barosma serratifolia (Nat. Ord. Rutacece). Cape 
of Good Hope. 

Characters. — Smooth, dull yellowish green, marked on the margins, 
especially the under surface, with oil-glands; peculiar strong odor; 
aromatic, mint-like taste. (1) The leaf of B. betulina is ^ in. long, cuneate 
or rhomboid-ovate, serrate-dentate, apex very blunt and usually recurved, 
texture more cartilaginous than the other species. (2) The leaf of B. crenulata 
is I in. long, oval-oblong, somewhat blunt at apex, narrowed at base into dis- 
tinct petiole, finely serrate or crenate-serrate. (3) The leaf of B. serratifolia 
is 1% in. long, linear-lanceolate, equally tapering at each end, apex truncate, 
sharply and closely serrate. Texture thin. Resembling buchu. — Senna and 
Uva Ursi, which have entire leaves. 

Impurity. — Leaves of Emplanum serrulatum (for B. serratifolia), which 
have no glands. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A yellowish-brown 
volatile oil from the glands ; it consists of stearoptene (barosma camphor) in 
solution in a liquid hydrocarbon. The stearoptene is deposited on exposure to 
air. (2) A bitter principle. (3) Mucilage. 

Dose, 15 to 30 gr. 



copaiba. 437 

Preparation. 
Extractum Buchu Fluidum. — Buchu by maceration and perco- 
lation in alcohol and water, evaporation. 
Dose, 15' to 30 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

A medicinal dose of buchu causes a slight feeling of warmth 
in the stomach, and a large one gives rise to vomiting. The vola- 
tile oil diffuses into the blood and is excreted by the bronchial 
mucous membrane, which it stimulates, and buchu is therefore 
occasionally given as an expectorant". Most of the oil is excreted 
by the kidney, which is also stimulated, and thus buchu is a mild 
diuretic. In the process of excretion it gives a peculiar odor to 
the urine, and acts as an astringent and disinfectant to the 
urinary tract, especially the bladder. It has consequently been 
administered for cystitis, irritable bladder, pyelitis, gonorrhoea, 
&c. Large doses continued for a long time are said to damage 
the kidney. The infusion contains very little of the oil. The 
fluid extract does not mix well with water on account of the oil in 
it. The action of the buchu is much the same as that of pareira, 
but it is pleasanter to take, and is a good vehicle for diuretics. 

COPAIBA. 

COPAIBA. — Copaiva. The oleo-resin obtained by deeply cutting or 
boring into the trunk of Copaifera Langsdorffii (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce), and 
other species of Copaifera. Valley of the Amazon, West and East Indies. 

Characters. — A more or less viscid liquid, generally transparent and 
not fluorescent, but some varieties are opalescent and slightly fluorescent; light 
yellow to pale golden brown. Odor peculiar, aromatic; taste acrid, bitter. 
Sp. gr. 0.940 to 0.993. Solubility. — Not at all in water, almost entirely in 
absolute alcohol, ether, fixed and volatile oils, benzol, and in four times its bulk 
of petroleum. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The officinal volatile oil, 
48 to 85 per cent, (see below). (2) The resin, 16 to 52 per cent. It exists 
dissolved in the oil. Dose, 10 to 20 gr. It is a brown resinous mass consist- 
ing of two resins: (a) copaivic acid (C 10 H 30 O 2 ),the chief constituent, a crystal- 
line resin, with a faint odor, a bitter taste, insoluble in water, easily soluble in 
absolute alcohol and ammonia; (6) a non-crystallizable viscid resin, \ l / 2 per 
cent. 



438 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Impurities. — Turpentine, detected by the smell on heating. Fixed oils ; 
these leave a greasy ring round the resinous stain when heated on paper. Gur- 
jun balsam, which coagulates at 270 F.; copaiba does not. 

Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. in two and a half times as much mucilage of acacia. 

Preparation. 

Massa Copaibse. — Copaiba, 94; magnesia, 6. 
Dose, }( to 1 dr. 

OLEUM COPAIBA. 

Source. — The volatile oil distilled from Copaiba. 

Characters. — Colorless or pale yellow, with the taste and odor of 
copaiba. It is isomeric with turpentine, C 10 H 16 . Sp. gr. about 0.890. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. suspended in mucilage of acacia (1^ fl. oz. for every 
fl. oz. of oil of copaiba) or yolk of egg. Cinnamon or peppermint water, 
with tincture of orange or ginger, covers the taste. It may be dissolved in 
alcohol and in water with the aid of Liquor Potassae, with which it forms a 
soap, or it may be given in capsules. 

RESINA COPAIBA.— The residue left after distilling off the volatile 
oil from Copaiba. 

Characters. — A yellowish or brownish-yellow, brittle resin, of a weak 
odor and taste of copaiba, and an acid reaction. Soluble in alcohol or 
amylic alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Action. 

External. — Copaiba is a stimulant to the skin. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — It acts like other volatile 
oils. Small doses produce a feeling of warmth in the epigastrium, 
but with large doses its irritant effect leads to vomiting and diar- 
rhoea. Its taste is nasty, and the eructations it may cause are very 
disagreeable. 

Mucous membranes, — Here also it acts like other volatile oils. 
It is quickly absorbed, and then is excreted by all the mucous 
membranes, which it stimulates in its passage through them, in- 
creasing their vascularity and the amount of their secretion, which 
if foul is disinfected. Because of these actions it is a disinfectant 
expectorant, and a stimulating disinfectant to the whole of 
the genito-urinary tract. It imparts a powerful odor to the 
breath and mucous secretions. It is also excreted by the skin, and 



COPAIBA. 439 

its irritant effect here is seen in the erythematous rash it often 
produces. 

Kidneys. — Copaiba has a more marked action on the kidneys 
than most substances containing volatile oils, and this is in great 
part due to the resin, which is particularly stimulating to the renal 
organs, and copaiba is therefore diuretic. Large doses of it 
greatly irritate the kidney, as is shown by pain in the loins and 
blood and albumen in the urine The resin itself is excreted in 
the urine, and can be thrown down from it by nitric acid ; but 
this precipitate is known not to be albumen by the fact that it is 
evenly distributed through the fluid and is dissolved by heat. If 
the renal congestion is severe, the urine may be very scanty. 

Therapeutics. 

Gent 'to-urinary tract. — Copaiba, or more usually its oil, is 
largely used to stimulate and disinfect this part of the body in 
cases of pyelitis, vaginitis, and gonorrhoea. It is often prescribed 
for this last disease, and is best given when the acute symptoms 
have subsided, otherwise it may increase them. 

Kidneys. — The resin which remains after distillation of the 
oil from copaiba is an admirable diuretic for hepatic and cardiac 
dropsy, but because of its liability to irritate the kidneys should 
not be given in Bright' s disease. After a time patients seem to 
become accustomed to it, for the diuresis is not so marked as at 
first. It is nasty and difficult to make palatable. Fifteen grains 
of the resin with 20 minims of alcohol, 15 grains of tragacanth 
powder to suspend it, and a fluid drachm of syrup of ginger in 
an ounce of water may be given for a dose. 

Bronchial mucous membrane. — Copaiba is occasionally used 
as a disinfectant expectorant when the secretion is very foul — as, 
for example, when the bronchial tubes are dilated. 

Skin. — Copaiba has been given in chronic skin diseases, as 
psoriasis, for the cutaneous stimulation caused by it, but it is now 
quite discarded. 

The reasons why it is rarely used except in gonorrhoea, for 
which it would not be employed if it had not such a strongly 



440 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

marked beneficial action, are that the smell of the breath of 
those taking it is very disagreeable, it is very nasty to the taste, and 
often causes indigestion. 

CUBEBA. 

CUB EB.— The unripe full-grown fruit of Cubeba officinalis (Nat. Ord. 
Piperacece). Java. 

Characters. — Globular, y^ in. in diameter, blackish or grayish-brown, 
wrinkled, tapering below into a rounded stalk, continuous with the pericarp. 
Beneath the skin is a hard, brown, smooth shell, in which in the mature fruit is 
the seed, but in commercial specimens this is so little developed that the peri- 
carp is almost empty. Odor aromatic. Taste warm, aromatic, bitter. Resem- 
bling cubeb. — Pepper and pimenta ; neither has a stalk. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) The officinal volatile oil y 
6 to 15 per cent. (q. v.). (2) The officinal oleo-resin (q. v.), 6 per cent., which 
contains much cubebic acid and cubebin. (3) Cubebin, a tasteless, insoluble, 
odorless substance. (4) Cubebic acid. (5) A little piperine. 

Dose, 30 to 60 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Cubebae Fluidum. — Cubeb by maceration and 
percolation with alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Oleoresina Cubebae. — A thick, viscid fluid. 

Source. — Percolate cubeb with stronger ether; evaporate the 
ether. Let the residue stand, and decant the oleo-resin off from the 
sediment. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. Tinctura Cubebae. — Cubeb, 10 ; by maceration and percola- 
tion with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 3 fl. dr. 

4. Trochisci Cubebae. — Oleoresin of cubeb, 50; oil of sassa- 
tras, 15; extract of glycyrrhiza, 400; acacia, 200; syrup of tolu, a 
sufficient quantity, to make 1 00 troches. Each troche contains y 2 mimim 
of the oleo-resin. 

Dose, 1 to 6. 

OLEUM CUBEBiE. 

Source. — The volatile oil distilled from cubeb. 

Characters — Colorless or greenish-yellow, with the odor and taste of 
cubeb. Sp. gr. about 0.920. Soluble in equal weight of alcohol. 



CUBEB. 44I 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Cubebene, a stereoptene 
like camphor. (2) Cubeben (C 15 H 24 ), a liquid oil. (3) A small amount of a 
terpene. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. suspended in mucilage. 

Action. 

External. — Like other substances containing a volatile oil, 
cubeb is rubefacient when rubbed into the skin. 

Internal. — Small doses are stomachic and carminative, and 
improve digestion, but moderate doses are very liable to cause 
dyspepsia. Cubeb enters the blood, and, like many volatile oils, 
slightly stimulates the heart, and also excites the organs through 
which it is excreted. Occasionally, therefore, it causes an 
erythematous eruption on the skin; it increases and disinfects 
the bronchial secretion, and is consequently an expectorant ; but 
its main action is on the genito-urinary passages, the mucous 
membrane of which is powerfully stimulated, and the secretions 
of which are disinfected. The kidneys are also irritated, hence 
cubeb is a diuretic. It appears in the urine in a form (prob- 
ably as a salt of cubebic acid) which may be precipitated by 
nitric acid. 

Therapeutics. 

It is sometimes employed as lozenges, or as a powder, or as the 
smoke of cubeb cigarettes, to stimulate the mucous membrane in 
cases of slight bronchitis, chronic sore throat, or follicular 
pharyngitis. Chronic nasal catarrh and hay-fever have been 
treated by insufflations of the powder. Asthma is sometimes re- 
lieved by the cigarettes. Many popular bronchial troches contain 
cubeb; in them it exercises its expectorant action. Cubeb is 
rarely used as a stomachic or cardiac stimulant, because it is so 
liable to upset digestion ; but as it is less likely to do so than 
copaiba, is a little pleasanter to take, and is almost as powerful a 
stimulant to the genito-urinary mucous membrane, it is largely 
used in gleet, gonorrhoea, and chronic cystitis. 

OLEUM SANTALI. 

OIL OF SANDAL WOOD. Synonym.— Santal oil. The volatile 
oil distilled from wood of Santalum album (Nat. Ord. Santalacece) . India. 

38 



442 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Thick, pale yellow. Odor strongly aromatic. Taste 
pungent, spicy. Readily soluble in alcohol, ether, or chloroform. Sp. gr. 
about 0.945. 

Composition. — Not known. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. in capsules, or as an emulsion. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of sandal-wood oil is the same as that of volatile 
oils in general, but, like that of the oils of copaiba and cubebs, 
it is especially manifested in the genito-urinary mucous 
membranes, which are stimulated and disinfected. The 
drug is used in gonorrhoea and gleet ; it is pleasanter than copaiba, 
but more expensive. It appears in the urine half an hour after 
administration. Some of it is excreted by the bronchial mucous 
membrane; it is, therefore, a stimulating disinfectant expecto- 
rant. Two or three drops on sugar will frequently relieve the 
hacking cough so often met with when but little sputum is ex- 
pectorated. 

MATICO. 

MATICO. — The leaves of Artanthe elongata (Nat. Ord. Piperacece). 
Peru. 

Characters. — A mass of broken, folded, compressed leaves, stems, 
flowers, and fruit. Leaves 4 to 6 in. long, short, petiolate, oblong-lanceolate, 
pointed, unequally heart-shaped, very finely crenulate, tesselated above. Veins 
prominent beneath, the depressions being clothed with hairs. Odor pleasant, 
feebly aromatic. Taste aromatic, bitter. Resembling Matico leaves. — Digitalis 
leaves (See p. 319). 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Volatile oil, i}i per cent. 
(2) A soft green resin. (3) Maticin, a bitter principle. (4) Artanthic acid. 
(5) Tannic acid. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Matico Fluidum. — Matico, by maceration and 
percolation with glycerin, alcohol, and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, y z to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Tinctura Matico. — Matico 10, by maceration and percolation 
with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, V 2 to 1 fl. oz. 



savine. 443 

Action. 

The volatile oil of matico probably has much the same action 

as that of cubeb, influencing chiefly the geni to -urinary passages. 

It has been given for the same cases, but is rarely used. The 

leaves are sometimes placed upon a bleeding surface. Their 

numerous hairs promote the clotting of the blood, and thus they 

are haemostatic. 

Class VI of Volatile Oils. 

Those used chiefly for their action on the female genital organs. 

SABINA. 

SAVINE. — The tops of Juniperus Sabina (Nat. Ord. Coniferce), col- 
lected in the spring. Britain. 

Characters. — Twigs densely covered with minute, imbricated, appressed, 
dark green leaves, with a large oval depressed central gland on their back. 
Odor, when bruised, strong and peculiar. Taste bitter, and disagreeable. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the officinal volatile oil (see below). 
Dose, 5 to 15 gr. in powder. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Sabinae Fluidum. — Savine, by maceration and 
percolation with alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

2. Ceratum Sabinae. — Fluid extract of savine, 25 ; resin cerate, 
90. 

OLEUM SABINAE. 

Source. — A volatile oil distilled from savine. 

Characters. — Colorless or pale yellow. Soluble in alcohol. Odor and 
taste as of savine. Sp. gr. about 0.910. 

Composition. — It contains several terpenes. 
Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Action. 

Oil of savine has the same actions as oil of turpentine, but 
they are more marked. Thus externally it causes great redness, 
pain, vesication, and even pustulation. Internally it may pro- 
duce severe gastro -intestinal irritation, with vomiting, abdominal 
pain and purging. In its excretion through the kidneys and the 
mucous membranes of the genito-urinary tract it severely irritates 



444 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

them ; thus hematuria, scanty urine and pain on micturition may 
follow its use. The point in which the action of oil of savine 
differs from that of the oil of turpentine is that it powerfully irri- 
tates the ovaries and uterus, causing hyperaemia of them and 
accelerating menstruation. It also induces contractions of the 
pregnant uterus, and therefore it is an ecbolic. 

Therapeutics. 

The cerate has been used as a powerful irritant and counter- 
irritant, and internally savine may be given as an emmenagogue ; 
but, on the whole, its use is to be discouraged, as it is so liable to 
cause serious gastro-enteritis. It has often been administered as 
an ecbolic with criminal intent. 

OLEUM RUTiE. 

OLEUM RUT^E.— Oil of Rue. The volatile oil distilled from the 
fresh herb of Ruta graveolens (Nat. Ord. Rutacece). Britain. 

Characters. — A light yellow oil, becoming brown on keeping. Taste 
sharp, bitter. Odor aromatic, disagreeable. Soluble in equal weight of alco- 
hol. Sp. gr. about 0.880. 

Composition. — It is a mixture of several volatile oils. 

Dose, 1 to 3 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

External. — Oil of rue is irritant and vesicant. 

Internal. — In large doses it is a powerful gastro-intestinal 
irritant. It is hardly ever used for these purposes. It is elimi- 
nated in, and may be recognized by its odor in the urine, breath 
and perspiration. It is irritant to the kidneys, ovaries and uterus, 
and excites the menstrual flow; consequently it is given in 
amenorrhcea. From its stimulating action on the uterus rue has 
been used as an abortifacient, and fatal cases of poisoning from 
gastro-intestinal irritation have been recorded. It is very rarely 
given as a medicine. In all points its action resembles that of 

savine. 

TANACETUM. 

TANSY. — The leaves and tops of Tanacetum vulgare (Nat. Ord. Corn- 
positce), Europe, United States. 



CALUMBA. 445 

Characters. — Leaves about 6 in. long; bipinnatifid, the segments ob- 
long, obtuse, serrate or incised, smooth, dark green and glandular; flower- 
heads corymbose, with an imbricated involucre, a convex, naked receptacle, 
and numerous yellow, tubular florets ; odor, strongly aromatic ; taste, pungent 
and bitter. 

Composition. — (i) Tanacetin. Symbol, C 11 H 16 4 . (2) Tannic acid. 
(3) Volatile oil. 

Dose, jl to 1 dr. 

Uses. 

Tansy possesses the properties of an aromatic bitter, and is 
an irritant narcotic. It has been used as an abortifacient, but is 
dangerous in large doses, several fatal cases having been recorded. 



GROUP VII. 

Vegetable Bitters. 

All these substances contain a bitter principle, which stimulates the functions 

of the stomach. 

Calumba, Calamus, Gentian, Quassia, Cascarilla, Chirata, Serpen- 

taria, Anthemis Matricaria, Cimicifuga, Taraxacum, 

Orange Peel, Orange Flowers. 

CALUMBA. 

COLUMBO. — The transversely cut disks of the root of Jateorhiza 
Calumba (Nat. Ord. Menispermacece). From the forests of Eastern Africa 
north of the Zambesi. 

Characters. — Flat, more or less circular disks about 2 in. in diameter, 
and *4 to yi, in. thick. Cortical part thick, with a wrinkled brownish-yellow 
coat. Center softer, concave and grayish yellow; there is a fine dark line 
between the two parts. Mealy fracture. Musty odor ; bitter taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Calumbin (C 21 H 22 7 ), a 
neutral bitter principle crystallizing in white needles. (2) Berberine, an alka- 
loid (see p. 365), giving the yellow color. (3) Calumbic acid. (4) Starch, 
33 per cent. No tannin is present, so calumba can be prescribed with salts 
of iron. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Calumbae Fluidum. — Calumba. By maceration 
and percolation in diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 5 to 30 m. 



446 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Tinctura Calumbse. — Calumba, 10. By maceration and per- 
colation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Calumba is a mild antiseptic and disinfectant. 

Internal. — Mouth. — Calumba is a typical bitter ; the appe- 
tite is sharpened because the gustatory nerves are stimulated; 
this reflexly leads to dilatation of the gastric vessels and to an in- 
crease in the gastric and salivary secretions. 

Stomach. — The effects on the gastric mucous membrane which 
were brought about reflexly by the stimulation of the gustatory 
nerves are further exaggerated by the arrival of the saliva in the 
stomach, and by the direct action of the calumba on it. The 
result is to cause a feeling of hunger, an extra secretion of gastric 
juice and greater vascular dilatation, and all this helps the 
digestion of the food. Peristalsis in the stomach and intestine 
is made slightly more active, and thus calumba is carminative. 

Injected into the rectum it is anthelmintic, destroying the 
threadworm. 

Therapeutics. 

Calumba is only employed to stimulate the gastric functions 
and improve the appetite in cases of chronic indigestion due to a 
general weakness of action on the part of the stomach. It is thus 
a type of the large class of stomachics. It is especially valuable 
in that form of dyspepsia in which the stomach participates in a 
general feebleness of all the organs of the body, such as we see 
in anaemia, starvation, convalescence from acute diseases, tuber- 
culosis and general exhaustion. Bitters should never be used 
when there is acute or subacute gastritis, a gastric ulcer or pain. 
They will obviously make all these conditions worse. They must 
not be too concentrated, nor given for too long, lest they should 
over-irritate the stomach. They should always, as far as possible, 
be combined with modes of treatment designed to relieve the 
cause of the dyspepsia. Often they are called tonics ; all that is 
meant by this is that, as they render the digestion of food more 



GENTIAN. 447 

easy, the general health will improve. Most bitters, when given 
as rectal injections, are anthelmintics for the Oxyuris ver?nicularis. 
Half a pint of the infusion of calumba may be thrown into the 
rectum of an adult. 

CALAMUS. 

SWEET FLAG. — The rhizome of Acorus Calamus (Nat. Ord. Ara- 
cea). United States. 

Characters. — Well known. 

Composition — The chief constituent is acorin, a glucoside. Symbol, 

Preparation. 

Extractum Calami Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 15 to 60 m. 

Uses. 

Sweet flag is a simple bitter and feeble aromatic, and is used 
with advantage in pain or uneasiness in the stomach or bowels 
arising from flatulence or as an adjunct to purgative medicines. 

GENTIANA. 

GENTIAN. — The root of Gentiana lutea (Nat. Ord. Gentianacece), 
Central and Southern European mountains. 

Characters. — Cylindrical, tough, brittle pieces or longitudinal slices, a 
few inches to a foot or more long, ^ to I in. thick, with irregular longitudinal 
furrows ; pieces from the upper part of the root annularly wrinkled. Periphe- 
rally yellowish-brown ; centrally reddish-yellow. Bark thick, reddish. Wood 
spongy, separated from bark by dark zone. Odor heavy, peculiar. Taste first 
sweet, then bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Gentiopicrin, the active, 
very bitter glucoside, soluble in water and alcohol. Can be split up into glu- 
cose and gentiogenin. (2) Gentisic or gentianic acid united with gentio-pic- 
rin. (3) A trace of a volatile oil. (4) Gum and sugar. Gentian contains 
no tannin, but cannot be prescribed with iron, because that darkens the color- 
ing matter. 

Incompatibles. — Sulphate of iron, nitrate of silver, and lead salts. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Gentianse. — By maceration and percolation with 
water and evaporation. 
Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 



448 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Extractum Gentianae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with diluted alcohol, and evaporation of residue. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. Tinctura Gentianae Composita. — Gentian, 8; bitter orange 
peel, 4; cardamom, 2. By maceration and percolation with diluted 
alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Gentian has the same action as other bitters, such as calumba, 
and is employed for the same class of cases. It is more used than 
any other bitter, because its taste is pleasant and it is not astrin- 
gent. 

QUASSIA. 

QUASSIA. — The wood of Picrcena excelsa (Nat. Ord. Simarubacece). 
Jamaica. 

Characters. — In billets varying in size and covered with a dark gray 
bark. Wood dense, tough, porous, yellowish white. Generally seen as chips, 
shavings or raspings. Inodorous. Intensely bitter. Resembling quassia. — 
Sassafras, but this is aromatic and not bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Quassin, a bitter neutral 
principle occurring in crystalline needles. (2) A volatile oil. No tannin is 
present, and therefore quassia can be prescribed with salts of iron. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Quassiae. — By percolation with water and evapo- 
ration, with addition of glycerin. 

Dose, y 2 to 3 gr. 

2. Extractum Quassiae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with distilled alcohol and evaporate. 

Dose, % to I dr * 

Tinctura Quassiae. — Quassia, 10. By maceration and percola- 
tion with diluted alcohol to 100. 
Dose, yi to 2 dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Quassia is an aromatic bitter stomachic, acting in the same 
way as calumba. As it contains no tannin it is often prescribed 
with iron. The only objection to it is that some persons find it 



CASCARILLA. 449 

too bitter. Injected per rectum, it is an excellent anthelmintic 
for Oxyuris vermicularis ; half a pint of the infusion (i to 80 of 
cold water) may be given for this purpose. 

CASCARILLA. 

CASCARILLA. — The bark of Croton Eluteria (Nat. Ord. Euphor- 
biacece). Bahamas. 

Characters. — Quills of curved pieces, I to 3 or more in. long, \ to \ 
in. in diameter. Externally there is a silvery lichen, under that a dull brown, 
easily separable, corky layer. Fracture brown 7 short, resinous Odor agreeable, 
aromatic, especially when burned. Taste warm, bitter. Resembling cascarilla. 
— Pale cinchona, which is less white, smooth and small. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Cascarillin, a bitter 
neutral crystalline substance. (2) Volatile oils. (3) Resins. (4) Tannin. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids. Lime water. Metallic salts. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Because of its bitter principle cascarillin, cascarilla, like other 
vegetable bitters, improves the digestion, and this stomachic and 
carminative action is aided by the volatile oils in it. It is pleas- 
ant to take, and is suitable for the same cases as calumba. The 
infusion (1 to 10) will not keep good for more than a day unless the 
tincture (1 to 8) is added to it. Mineral acids precipitate the 
resin from the tincture ; therefore the infusion should be pre- 
scribed with them. 

CHIRATA. 

CHIRATA.— The plant Ophelia Chirata (Nat. Ord. Gentianacece), 
collected when the fruit begins to form. Northern India. 

Characters. — Root 2 to 3 in. long, generally unbranched. Stem 3 ft. 
or more long, rounded below, quadrangular above, branched dichotomously ; 
smooth, orange-brown or purplish ; consists of a thin, woody ring enclosing 
much yellow pith. Leaves ovate, 5-nerved. Flowers small, numerous, 
panicled. Odor none. Taste very bitter. Rese?tibling chiretta. — Lobelia, 
which is not bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Chiratin, an active bitter, 

amorphous principle. (2) Ophelic acid, with which it is combined. No 

tannin is present. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Chiratae Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with diluted alcohol and glycerin and evaporation. 
Dose, 



45 O ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Tinctura Chiratae. Chirata, 10; by maceration and perco 
lation with diluted alcohol to loo. 
Dose, yi, to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Chirata has the same actions and uses as gentian, calumba, 
and other bitters. As it contains no tannin, it can be given with 
iron. It is more used in India than in England. 

SERPENTARIA. 

SERPENTARIA. Synonym.— Virginia Snakeroot. 

Source. — The rhizome and rootlets of Aristolochia Serpentaria and of 
Aristolochia reticulata. Nat. Ord., (Aristolochiacece). United States. 

Characters. — The rhizome is about I in. long, thin, bent ; on the upper 
side with approximate, short stem remnants ; on the lower side with numer- 
ous, thin, branching rootlets about 4 in. long ; dull yellowish-brown, internally- 
whitish ; the wood rays of the rhizome longer on the lower side ; odor aroma- 
tic, camphoraceous ; taste warm, bitterish and camphoraceous. The rootlets 
of Aristolochia reticulata are coarser, larger, and less interlaced than those of 
Aristolochia Serpentaria. Resembling Serpentaria. — Veratrum Viride, arnica, 
valerian, (q. v.). 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A bitter principle, aristol- 
ochin. (2) A volatile oil. (3) Resin. The rhizome deteriorates by keeping. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Serpentariae Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

2. Tinctura Serpentariae. — Serpentaria, 10 ; by maceration and 
percolation with diluted alcohol to 1 00. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Serpentaria is contained in Tinctura Cinchonae Composita. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

In the small doses in which serpentaria is given in medicine it 
is a bitter stomachic, acting just like calumba, and cascarilla, 
and it is used for the same class of cases. It is rarely pre- 
scribed alone. In large doses it produces vomiting and purging. 
Many virtues have been attributed to it which it does not possess. 



CIMICIFUGA. 45 1 

ANTHEMIS. 

CHAMOMILE. — The flower-heads of Anthemis nobilis (Nat. Ord., 
Composite). Collected from cultivated plants. Europe. 

Character. — Subglobular, about ^ in. broad, consisting of an imbri- 
cated involucre and numerous white, strap-shaped, three-toothed florets, in- 
serted upon a chaffy, conical, solid receptacle ; a strong, agreeable odor ; and 
an aromatic, bitter taste. 

Dose, yi to 2 

Uses. 

Chamomile is used as a mild stimulant for the languid appetite 

and general debility, which often attends convalescence from 

fevers. 

MATRICARIA. 

GERMAN CHAMOMILE. — The flower-heads of Matricaria 

Chamomilla (Nat. Ord., Composite). Europe. 

Characters. — About ^ in. broad, composed of a blackish, imbricate 
involucre, a conical, hollow, naked receptacle, about fifteen white, ligulate, 
reflexed ray-flowers, and numerous yellow, tubular, perfect flowers without 
pappus ; strongly aromatic and bitter. 

Resembling matricaria. — Anthemis arvensis and Maranta Cotula, but 
these have a conical, solid, and chalky receptacle. 

Dose, X I to ^ r - 

Uses. 

The properties and uses are identical with those of Cham- 
omile. 

CIMICIFUGA. 

CIMICIFUGA. — The rhizome and rootlets of Cimicifuga racemosa (also 
called Actea racemosa). The black snake-root or black cohosh (Nat. Ord. 
Ranunculaece). Northern United States. 

Characters. — Rhizome 2 to 6 in. long, ^ to 1 in. thick. Hard, 
brownish black, almost odorless ; bitter taste. On the upper surface remains 
of aerial stems; on the lower, wiry, brittle, branched rootlets, more or less 
broken off. It deteriorates by keeping. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil. (2) 
Tannic and gallic acids. (3) Two resins. 

Cimicifugin or macrotin is an impure resin deposited from the tincture on 

adding water. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Cimicifugae Fluidum. — By maceration and per- 
colation with alcohol and evaporation. 
Dose, V2, to 3 fl. dr. 



45 2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Tinctura Cimicifugse. — Cimicifuga, 20; by maceration and 
percolation with alcohol to 1 00. 
Dose, ]/ 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action. 

Cimicifuga has two chief actions. It influences the gastric 
secretion like any other bitter, and, to a slight extent, it depresses 
the rate but increases the force of the pulse, like digitalis. 
The arterial tension rises. It is said to cause contractions of the 
uterus and to increase the menstrual flow. 

Therapeutics. 

It has been used for chorea, dyspepsia, bronchitis, amenor- 
rhoea, rheumatism, neuralgia, and many other diseases. The evi- 
dence that it does any good is slight. 

TARAXACUM. 

TARAXACUM. Synonym. — Dandelion. The root of Taraxacum 
Dens-leonis (Nat. Ord. Compositce). Collected in the autumn from indigenous 
plants. United States. 

Characters. — About 12 in. long, y^ in. in diameter. Externally 
smooth, yellowish brown, Internally white. Short fracture. Milky juice. 
When dried is dark-brown, furrowed longitudinally, shrivelled. Fracture 
short, showing yellow, porous, woody axis, with irregular, concentric rings and 
a thick whitish bark. No odor. Taste bitter. Resembling taraxacum. — 
Pellitory, which is pungent when chewed. 

Impurity. — The root of the Ctchorium fntybus. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Taraxacin, a neutral 
principle. (2) Taraxacerin. (3) Asparagin (found also in asparagus, marsh - 
mallow, liquorice, euonymus, &c.), of no therapeutical value. (4) Inulin, 
mannite, salts. (5) Resins (which give the juice its milky appearance). 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Taraxaci. — Fresh Taraxacum. By expression 
and straining and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

2. Extractum Taraxaci. — Taraxacum by maceration and per- 
colation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 



ORANGE. 453 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Dandelion is a simple bitter, and acts as a stomachic, just like 
calumba. It is also slightly laxative. It was formerly much 
more used than at the present day. It has been said to stimulate 
the flow of bile, but this is incorrect. 

ORANGE PEEL. 

AURANTII AMARI CORTEX.— Bitter Orange Peel. The dried 
outer part of the rind or pericarp of Citrus vulgaris (Nat. Ord. Aurantiacece). 
Southern Europe. 

Characters. — Thin pieces or strips, dark brownish-green color, almost 
free from the white inner rind. Odor fragrant. Taste aromatic and bitter. 

AURANTII DULCIS CORTEX.— Sweet Orange Peel. The rind 
of the fruit of Citrus Aurantii (Nat. Ord. Aurantiacece). 

Characters. — Closely resembling bitter orange peel, but having an 
orange-yellow color. It has a sweetish, fragrant odor, and an aromatic, slightly 
bitter taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) A fixed oil, Oleum 
Corticis Aurantii, I to 2 per cent. It is isomeric with oil of turpentine. (2) 
A bitter crystalline principle, hesperidin. (3) Tannin, a small quantity. 

1. Extractum Aurantii Amari Fluidum. — Bitter orange peel, 
by maceration and percolation with alcohol and water and evaporation. 

Dose, Yz to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Tinctura Aurantii Amari. — Bitter orange peel, 20; by ma- 
ceration and percolation with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

3. Syrupus Aurantii. — Sweet orange peel, 5 ; precipitated phos- 
phate of calcium, 1 ; alcohol, 5 ; sugar, 60. By maceration and addi- 
tion of water and filtration, to 100. 

Dose, as vehicle. 

4. Tinctura Aurantii Dulcis. — Sweet orange peel, 20; by ma- 
ceration and percolation with alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Bitter orange peel is contained in Tinctura Cinchonae Composita, Tinctura 
Gentianse Composita. 

AURANTII FLORES.— Orange Flowers. The partly expanded fresh 
flowers of Citrus vulgaris and Citrus Aurantium. 



454 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — About y^ in. long; calyx small, cup-shaped, five-toothed, 
petals five, oblong, obtuse, rather fleshy, white and glandular-punctate ; sta- 
mens numerous, in about three sets ; wavy globular, upon a small disk, with a 
cylindrical style, and a globular stigma; odor very fragrant; taste aromatic 
and somewhat bitter. 

Preparations. 
i. Aqua Aurantii Florum. — Recent orange flowers, 40; by 
distillation with steam to 100. 
Dose, indeterminate. 

2. Syrupus Aurantii Florum. — Orange flower water, 35; sugar, 

65. 

Dose, indeterminate. 

OLEUM AURANTII CORTICIS.— A volatile oil extracted by 
mechanical means from fresh orange peel. 

Characters. — A pale, yellowish liquid, having the characteristic, aro- 
matic odor of orange, an aromatic, somewhat bitter taste, and a neutral reaction. 
Sp. gr. about 0.860. It is soluble in 2 parts of alcohol. 

Preparations. 

1. Elixir Aurantii. — Oil of orange peel, 1 ; sugar, 100; by per- 
colation with cotton and alcohol and water, with solution of the sugar 
to 300. 

Dose, indeterminate. 

2. Spiritus Aurantii. — Oil of orange peel, 6 ; alcohol, 94. 
Dose, indeterminate. 

Oil of Orange peel is contained in Spiritus Myrciae. 

OLEUM AURANTII FLORUM.— Oil of orange flowers. Synonym. 
— Oil of Neroli. A volatile oil distilled from fresh orange flowers. 

Characters. — A yellowish or brownish, thin liquid, having a very 
fragrant odor of orange flowers, an aromatic, somewhat bitterish taste, and a 
neutral reaction. Sp. gr. 0.850 to 0.890. Soluble in an equal weight of alcohol. 

// is contained in Spiritus Odoratus (q. v.). 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The various preparations of the orange are used largely as 
flavoring agents. They are slightly bitter and stomachic. 



GALL, TANNIC ACID. 455 

GROUP VIII. 

Vegetable Drugs containing Tannic Acid. 

These are all astringent. 

Oak Bark, Nutgall, Catechu, Krameria, Kino, Haematoxylon, Ham- 
amelis, Rhus Glabra, Geranium, Rubus, Prinos, Rumex. 

QUERCUS ALBA.— White oak. The bark of the smaller branches 
and young stems of Quercus alba ( Nat. Ord. Cupuliferce) . Collected in spring 
from trees in United States. 

Characters. — In nearly flat pieces, deprived of the corky layer ; about 
% in. thick, pale brown ; inner surface with short, sharp, longitudinal ridges, 
tough; of a coarse, fibrous fracture, a faint, tan-like odor, and a strongly 
astringent taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Querci-tannic acid, 4 to 
20 per cent., a variety of tannic acid. (2) Quercin, a bitter principle. (3) 
Pectin, &c. 

Incompatibles. — See Tannic Acid. 

GALLA. — Nutgall. Excrescences on Quercus lusitanica (Nat. Ord. 
Cupuliferce), caused by the punctures and deposited ova of Cynips Gallce 
tinctoricB (Class, Insecta ; Order, Hymenopterd). 

Characters. — Hard, heavy, subglobular, ^ to ^ in. in diameter; 
tuberculated on surface ; the tubercles and the intervening spaces are smooth ; 
dark bluish green or dark olive-green externally ; yellowish or brownish white 
within, with small central cavity. Odor none. Taste first astringent, then 
sweetish. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Tannic acid, 25 to 75 
per cent. (2) Gallic acid, 2 to 5 per cent. 

Incompatibles. — See Tannic and Gallic Acids. 

Preparations, 

1. Tinctura Gallae. — Nutgall, 20; by maceration with glycerine 
and diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Unguentum Gallae. — Nutgall, 10; benzoinated lard, 90. 

ACIDUM TANNICUM.— Tannic acid. Synonym.— Tannin. C 14 
H 10 O 9 . An acid extracted from galls. 

Source. — (1) Expose powdered galls to the damp for two or three days. 



45 6 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

(2) Add ether to form a paste, and let it stand. (3) Press this in linen, add 
more ether to the solid portion, and press again, (4) Mix the expressed 
liquids and slowly evaporate. Tannic acid remains. 

Characters. — Pale yellow vesicular masses or thin glistening scales. 
Taste strongly astringent. Reaction acid. Solubility. — Freely in water or 
alcohol; I in 3 of glycerine; I in 100 of ether. Gives a yellowish- white 
precipitate with gelatine (gallic acid does not). It is a first anhydride, formed 
from two molecules of gallic acid by the abstraction of water, 2C 7 H 6 5 — H 2 
— C u H 10 O 9 , and is consequently digallic acid. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids, alkalies. Salts of antimony, lead, silver, 
per-salts of iron. Alkaloids, gelatine, emulsions. 

Dose, 1 to 2 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Collodium Stypticum. — Tannic acid, 20 ; alcohol, 5 ; stronger 
ether, 20; collodion, 55. By solution. 

2. Trochisci Acidi Tannici. — Tannic acid, 100; sugar, looo; 
tragacanth, 25 grs. ; orange flower water, a 'sufficient quantity to make 
100 troches. Each contains I gr. of tannic acid. 

Dose, 1 to 3. 

3. Unguentum Acidi Tannici. — Tannic acid, 10 ; benzoinated 
lard, 90. 

Action. 

External. — Tannic acid is one of our most important drugs, 
because it coagulates albumen and gelatine with great readiness ; 
that is to say, it tans the tissues, for it is by coagulating the inter- 
stitial fluid in skins, that tannic acid converts them into leather. 
If an albuminous discharge is taking place from a sore or mucous 
surface and tannic acid is applied, the excreted fluid is coagu- 
lated, and the coagulum forms a solid protecting layer which pre- 
vents further discharge. As the tannic acid soaks into the tissues 
it coagulates the albuminous fluids there also, and this still further 
hinders the discharge of fluid, therefore it is an energetic as- 
tringent. If bleeding is taking place, tannic acid of course 
coagulates the blood as it flows and the clots plug the vessels ; at 
the same time the coagulum formed within the tissues, by its con- 
traction, constricts the blood-vessels, and thus tannic acid becomes 
a powerful haemostatic. Authorities differ as to whether it also 
contracts the blood-vessels by acting directly on them like lead, 



TANNIC ACID. 457 

silver, ergot, etc., but probably it has no such action. Tannic 
acid is slightly antiseptic, and it is mildly depressant to sensory 
nerves. Like other acids it is irritant, but it is very feebly so, 
and consequently its action in this direction is more than count- 
erbalanced by its strongly astringent effects. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Because tannic acid 
coagulates the mucous secretions and the fluids in mucous mem- 
branes, it makes the mouth dry when locally applied ; in the 
stomach and intestines it prevents the secretion of gastric and 
intestinal juices, and decreases the flow of mucus. For these 
reasons, and also because it precipitates pepsin, it interferes with 
digestion, In the intestine it is converted into gallic acid, 
but until this happens it can control gastric or intestinal bleeding. 
It is absorbed as gallic acid. Salts of tannic acid have no astrin- 
gent properties. 

Remote effects. — Gallic acid has no power to coagulate albumen, 
nor has it any astringent influence when locally applied, therefore 
it is difficult to believe that tannic acid has any remote astringent 
or haemostatic effects ; some claim that it has, but they have not 
proved their case. It is excreted in the urine as gallic and pyro- 
gallic acids. Many vegetable substances, as logwood, &c, 
depend, for their astringent properties, on the tannic acid they 
contain. 

Therapeutics. 

The therapeutical applications of tannic acid are very numer- 
ous. It is used as an astringent for ulcers, sores, various moist 
eruptions, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, nasal catarrh, otorrhcea, gastric 
catarrh, diarrhoea (large doses of 30 grains may be given, and 
catechu, logwood, &c, are favorite remedies), leucorrhoea, 
gonorrhoea, rectal ulcers, fissures, and prolapse, &c. It is 
employed as a haemostatic in bleeding from small wounds, ulcers, 
the gums, the pharynx, the nose, the stomach, the intestine, 
haemorrhoids, the bladder, &c. Whenever practicable a good 
method of application is to dust it on the part, especially for a 
haemorrhage; if this is gastric or intestinal, 30 grains or more 
should be frequently given by the mouth. For external use or 

39 



45 8 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDCIA. 

application to the throat the glycerine i in 5 is useful. A gargle 
of 3j of the glycerine to 5j of water may be made. The lozenges 
are convenient for pharyngitis. A spray (6 to 10 gr. in 5j of 
water) or an insufflation of tannic acid and starch maybe used for 
the mouth and larynx. The ointment of gall and opium, 1 to 14 of 
ointment of gall, is a favorite application for piles. The sup- 
positories (3 grains each) are useful for rectal discharges. Solutions 
of 10 gr. to 5j of water, may be injected into the urethra and 
bladder. The decotion of oak bark, employed as a rectal injec- 
tion, destroys the threadworm. 

ACIDUM GALLICUM.— Gallic Acid. HC 7 H 5 5 ,H 2 0. An acid 
prepared from gall [see Tannic Acid, p. 455). 

Source. — Boil one part of powdered gall with four parts of dilute sul- 
phuric acid, and strain. Gallic acid crystallizes out, and is purified with char- 
coal and recrystallization. 

Characters. — Pale triclinic prisms or silky needles. Taste slightly acid- 
ulous. Solubility. — I in 100 of cold water; I in 3 of boiling water; I in 4.5 of 
alcohol ; 1 in 5 of cold, I in 4 of hot glycerine. 

Incompatibles. — Per-salts of iron, and metallic salts generally ; Spiritus 
Athens Nitrosi. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Acidi Gallici. — Gallic acid, to; benzoinated lard, 
90. 

Action. 

Gallic acid has no power to coagulate albumen and therefore 
possesses none of the local properties of tannic acid. If it is 
wished to try to produce the supposed remote astringent effects of 
tannic acid, gallic acid may be administered, for tannic acid is in 
the intestine converted into it. 

CATECHU. 

CATECHU. — An extract prepared from the wood of Acacia Catechu 
(Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). Northern India. 

Characters. — In irregular masses, containing fragments of leaves, dark 
brown, brittle, somewhat porous and glassy, when freshly broken ; soluble in 
alcohol and partly soluble in water. It is nearly inodorous and has a strongly 
astringent and sweetish taste. 



CATECHU. 459 

Composition — The chief constituents are — (i) Catechu-tannic acid (C 13 
H 12 2 ), the active principle, isomeric with catechin, and converted into it by 
boiling or by the saliva, a red color being formed. (2) Catechin or catechuic 
acid, probably inactive. Both constituents give a green precipitate with per- 
salts of iron. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies, metallic salts, and gelatine. 

Impurity. — Starch. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Tinctura Catechu Composita. — Catechu, 12; cinnamon, 8; 
by maceration and percolation with diluted alcohol to 1 00. 

Dose, ^ to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Trochisci Catechu. — Catechu, 100; sugar, 1000; tragacanth, 
25 grains; orange flower water, a sufficient quantity to make 100 
troches. Each troche contains 1 gr. 

Dose, 1 to 6. 

Action And Therapeutics. 

Catechu is a powerful astringent, acting in virtue of its tan- 
nic acid, and having a precisely similar action to it. It is used 
as a lozenge for sore throats, and the other preparation, the com- 
pound tincture is very efficacious for diarrhoea. 

KRAMERIA. 

KRAMERIA. Synonym. — Rhatany. The root of two officinal species 
■ — (i)Peruvian rhatany, Krameria triandra ; (2) Savanilla rhatany, Krameria 
tormentosa (Nat. Ord. PolygalacecE). Peru and Brazil. 

Characters. — (1) Peruvian. — Branched or unbranched pieces of varying 
size. The bark separates easily ; it is 2V *° To m * thick, mostly rough and 
scaly ; dark reddish-brown externally, and bright brownish-red internally. Axis 
hard, brownish or reddish-yellow wood. (2) Savanilla. — Less irregular and 
not so long or thick ; bark smoother, thicker, more adherent and dark purplish 
or violet color. The bark of both kinds is strongly astringent, and tinges the 
saliva red. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (\)Rhatania-tannic acid 
(C 54 H 24 21 ) 20 to 45 per cent.; this is a kind of tannin. (2) Rhatannic red, 
the coloring matter. (3) Rhatannin, a neutral substance. 

Incompatibi.es. — Alkalies, lime water, salts of iron and lead, and 
gelatine. 



460 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Krameriae. — By percolation with water and 
evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 10 gr. 

2. Extractum Krameriae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with glycerin, and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

3. Tinctura Krameriae. — Krameria, 20; by maceration and per- 
colation with diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

• 4. Trochisci Krameriae. — Extract of Krameria, 100 ; sugar, 1000; 
tragacanth, 25 grains ; orange-flower water, a sufficient quantity to 
make 100 troches. Each troche contains I gr. 
Dose, 1 to 6. 

5. Syrupus Krameriae. — Fluid extract of Krameria, 35; syrup, 65. 
Dose, y 2 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action. 

The action of rhatany is due entirely to the tannic acid it 
contains. It is therefore a powerful astringent. 

Therapeutics. 

The powdered extract is the important ingredient of many 
tooth powders which are useful when the gums are liable to bleed. 
The infusion is an excellent gargle for a relaxed throat, and 
troches made of rhatany are also efficacious. Bleeding from the 
nose or the rectum may be stopped by applying powdered rhatany 
locally; the infusion (1 to 20) may be used as an injection in 
leucorrhoea or gonorrhoea. Any of the preparations, especially the 
fluid extract, are powerful astrigents for all varieties of diarrhoea, 
and may be taken to stop bleeding from the stomach and intes- 
tines. They are also given as remote haemostatics for haemop- 
tysis and haematuria, but they are not reliable for these purposes. 

KINO. 

KINO. — The juice obtained from incisions into the trunk of Pterocarpus 
Marsupium (Nat. Ord. Legziminosa?), inspissated without artificial heat. 
Malabar. 



LOGWOOD. 461 

Characters. —Small, angular, glistening, reddish-black, brittle fragments- 
In thin pieces, and at the edges translucent and ruby-red. Inodorous. When 
chewed, sticks to the teeth and colors the saliva blood-red. Soluble in alcohol, 
partly in water. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Kino-tannic acid, C 18 H 18 
8 , 75 per cent. (2) Kinoin, a crystalline neutral substance. (3) Pyrocate- 
chin, C 6 H 4 (OH) 2 , a substance also found pathologically in the urine, and giving 
it a dark color. It reduces blue copper solutions. (4) Kino-red, formed from 
kino-tannic acid by oxidation. (5) Gum. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids, alkalies, all metallic salts, carbonates, 
gelatine. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparation, 

Tinctura Kino. — Kino, 10; glycerin, 15. By maceration and 
nitration with water and diluted alcohol to 1 00. 
Dose, ^ to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Kino-tannic acid acts like tannic acid, and therefore kino is 
a powerful astringent. It is used in astringent gargles, and also 
in diarrhoea mixtures. 

H^MATOXYLON. 

LOGWOOD. — The sliced heart- wood of Hcematoxylon campechianum 
(Nat. Ord. Legttminosce). Campeachy, Honduras, and Jamaica. 

Characters. — The logs, in which form it is imported, are hard, heavy 
blackish-red externally, and internally reddish-brown. The chips are reddish- 
brown. Odor agreeable, peculiar. Taste sweetish, astringent. When chewed 
the saliva is colored reddish-pink. Resembling logwood. — Red. sandal-wood, 
which is more dense and less astringent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are ( 1 ) Tannic acid. (2) Hema- 
toxylin (C 16 H 14 6 ), 12 per cent. Occurring in colorless crystals, which become 
dark-red on exposure to light. Solutions of it are used to stain histological 
specimens. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids, lime water, and tartar emetic ; metallic 
salts give a blue color. 

Preparation. 
Extractum Haematoxylon. — By maceration in water, boiling, 
straining, and evaporation. 
Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 



462 organic materia medica. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

In virtue of its tannic acid logwood is a powerful astringent, 

and for this purpose is used to control diarrhoea of all sorts. It 

may be combined with other astringents, as chalk and opium. 

It does not easily produce constipation. It colors the urine and 

faeces dark red. One disadvantage of it is that it stains linen, if 

dropped on it. 

hamamelis. 

WITCHHAZEL.- The leaves of Hamamelis virginica (Nat. Ord. 
Hamamelacece). United States. 

Characters.— Short- petiolate, about 4 in. long, obovate or oval, slightly 
heart-shaped and oblique at the base, sinuate-toothed, nearly smooth ; inodor- 
ous; taste astringent and bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Tannin. (2) A volatile 
principle not yet isolated. (3) A little coloring matter. 

Preparation. 
Extractum Hamamelidis Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Hamamelis, is, because of its tannic acid, astringent and 
haemostatic. The fluid extract is used for capillary haemor- 
rhage from wounds, for bleeding from the nose, the sockets of the 
teeth, the gums, or from piles, and it may be injected into the 
bladder in vesical haemorrhage. For all these purposes it is di- 
luted with water; the fluid may be any strength; 1 of the fluid 
extract to 10 or 20 of water is commonly employed. Locally ap- 
plied, hamamelis, either as the ointment (1 to 10) or a dilute 
fluid preparation, is used as an astringent in bruises, sprains, ■ 
pharyngitis, and nasal catarrh. The ointment is often used for 
piles. Given by the mouth, hamamelis may check diarrhoea, 
dysentery, etc. ; and it is reputed to be a remote haemostatic and 
astringent, but this is probably incorrect. 



RHUS GLABRA. 
SUMACH.— The fruit of Rhus glabra (Nat. Ord. Anacardiece). United 



States. 



CRANESBILL, BLACKBERRY. 463 

Characters. — Sub-globular, about yfc in. in diameter, drupaceous, crim- 
son, densely hairy, containing a roundish-oblong, smooth putamen ; it is inodor- 
ous, and its taste acidulous. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is Tannin, which it contains from 
6 to 27 per cent. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Rhois Glabrae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with glycerin and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, X to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Sumac berries are astringent and refrigerant. The fluid ex- 
tract when diluted affords a very useful and effective gargle for 
inflammation and ulceration of the throat. 

GERANIUM. 

CRANESBILL. — The rhizome of Geranium maculatum (Nat. Ord. 
Geraniacece). United States. 

Characters. — Horizontal, cylindrical, 2 or 3 in. long, ^ in. thick, tu- 
berculated, longitudinally wrinkled, dark brown; bark thin; rootlets thin, 
fragile; inodorous; taste astringent. 

Preparation. 
Extractum Geranii Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with glycerin, and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, ^ to 1 "fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

It is one of the best indigenous astringents, and is of great use 
in diarrhoeas and dysenteries, and in the various haemorrhages. 

RUBUS. 

BLACKBERRY. — The bark of the root of Rubus villosus, Rubus 
canadensis and Rubus trivia/is (Nat. Ord. Dryadece). United States. 

Characters. — In thin, tough, flexible bands, outer surface blackish or 
blackish -gray, inner surface pale brownish, sometimes with strips of whitish, 
tasteless wood adhering ; inodorous ; strongly astringent, somewhat bitter. 

Preparations. 
1. Extractum Rubi Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with glycerin, alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, V 2 to 2 fl. dr. 



464 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

2. Syrupus Rubi. — Fluid extract of rubus, 20; syrup, 80. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Dewberry and blackberry roots are tonic and slightly astrin- 
gent. They are used for diarrhoeas. 

PRINOS. 

BLACK ALDER. — The bark of Prinos verticillatus (Nat. Ord. Aqui- 
foliacece). United States. 

Characters. — Thin, slender fragments, about ^ in. thick, fragile ; outer 
surface brownish, ash-colored, with whitish patches and blackish dots and 
lines; the corky layer easily separating from the green tissue; inner surface 
pale greenish or yellowish ; fracture short, tangentially striate ; nearly inodor- 
ous, bitter, slightly astringent. 

Dose, ^ to 1 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Black alder is considered tonic and astringent and has been 
proposed as a substitute for Peruvian Bark. It has been used in 
intermittent fever, diarrhoea and debility. 

RUMEX. 

YELLOW DOCK. — The root of Rumex crispus, and of other species 
of Rumex (Nat. Ord. Polygonacece). United States. . 

Characters. — From 8 to 12 in. long, about ^ in. thick, somewhat fusi- 
form, fleshy, nearly simple, annulate above, deeply wrinkled below ; externally 
rusty-brown, internally whitish, with fine, straight, interrupted medullary rays, 
and a rather thick bark; fracture short; odor slight, peculiar; taste bitter, 
astringent. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Rumicis Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Rumex is astringent, slightly tonic and alterative. It has been 
used in syphilis, scorbutic disorders, and cutaneous eruptions. 



SOAP. 465 

GROUP IX. 

Vegetable Demulcent Substances. 

Olive oil, malt, chondrus, glycerin, oleic acid, althea, almond, 
tragacanth, acacia, cydonium, ulmus, liquorice, flaxseed, cetraria. 

OLEUM OL.IVJE. 

OLIVE OIL. — The fixed oil expressed from the ripe fruit of Olea eu- 
ropcsa (Nat. Ord. Oleacece). South Europe. 

Characters. — A pale yellow fluid. Odor faint. Taste oleaginous. 

Composition. — The two constituents are — (1) Olein, 72 per cent., a fluid 
oil, a compound of oleic acid and glyceryl, thus: C 3 H 5 (C 18 H 33 2 )3. (2) Pal- 
mitin, 28 per cent., a solid oil, a compound of palmitic acid, and glyceryl, C 3 
H 5 (C 16 H 31 2 ^ 3 . The formula for oleic acid is C 18 H 34 2 ; and for palmitic, C 16 
H 32 2 . 

Dose, ]A, to 1 fl. oz. 

Olive oil is contained in Emplastrum Plumbi and Unguentum Diachylon. 

SAPO. 

SOAP. — It is oleate of sodium, NaC 18 H 33 2 . 

Source. — Made by acting on olive oil with caustic soda, C 3 H 5 (C 18 H 33 
2 ) 3 + 3 NaHO= 2 NaC 18 H 33 2 (hard soap)+C 3 H 5 (OH) 3 (glycerine). 

Preparations, 

1. Emplastrum Saponis. — Soap, 10; lead plaster, 90; by solu- 
tion in water and evaporation. 

2. Linimentum Saponis. Synonym. — Opodeldoc. Soap, 10; 
camphor, 5; oil of rosemary, I ; alcohol, 70; water to 100. 

SAPO VIRIDIS. 

GREEN SOAP. — A soap prepared from potassa and fixed oils, gener- 
ally from olive oil. It is an oleate of potassium. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Saponis Viridis. — Green soap, 65; oil of lavender, 2; 
alcohol to 100, by filtration. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

External. — Olive oil is used to facilitate the rubbing of 
parts 5 for this purpose it is employed in massage. It is a com- 
40 



466 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

mon soothing protective to burns and may be mixed with 
poultices to prevent their adhering to the skin. If rubbed in 
vigorously, it can be absorbed through the epidermis, and might 
be thus used as a food when nourishment cannot be given by the 
mouth. 

Internal. — For its soothing protective qualities it may be 
swallowed after corrosive poisons have been taken. It is an ex- 
cellent mild laxative, and can be given with food for this pur- 
pose. Some persons like it, with others it excites nausea and 
vomiting. An olive oil enema (olive oil, 4 5 ; warm mucilage of 
starch, 8 ^), or a soap enema (soap y 2 ^ ; warm water, 16 ^), 
is often used to open the bowels when a mild non-irritating in- 
jection is required. Large doses of olive oil are said to facilitate 
the expulsion of gall-stones, but this is very doubtful. 

Olive oil is a food, but it is not often used in this country as 

such. The history of fats and oils in the body is. discussed in 

works on physiology. 

MALTUM. 

MALT. — Synonym. — Byne. The seed of Hordeum distichum (Nat. 
Ord. Graminacea:), caused to enter the incipient state of germination by artifi- 
ficial means, and dried. It contains the ferment diastase, which can convert 
starch into dextrine and maltose. Thus io(C 6 H 10 O 5 )n-J-4nH 2 O==4nC 12 H 22 O n 
maltose +(C 12 H 20 O 10 )n, dextrine. 

Characters. — Is sweet, thick, brownish liquid, like honey. It forms an 
emulsion with oils. 

Composition. — This varies very much. The chief constituent is maltose 
(C 12 H 22 O n ) ; there is also some dextrine (C 12 H 20 O 10 ), some diastase (unless 
destroyed by boiling), albumens, the salts of barley, and sometimes alcohol. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Malti. — By maceration, dilution with water, straining 
and evaporation of the strained liquid. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Maltose is a very valuable food, especially for persons who 
are suffering from wasting diseases, and have a feeble digestion. 
It is easily retained by the stomach, even when, as often is the 



GLYCERIN. 467 

case, in phthisis, other food, especially cod-liver oil, is rejected. 
In such a case a malt extract is an excellent substitute for cod- 
liver oil. Maltose as a food leads to the formation of fat. The 
diastase contained in malt extract, acting upon the starch in 
farinaceous food, converts it into dextrin and maltose, and thus 
if the secretion of saliva and pancreatic juice is feeble, the malt 
to some extent supplies their place. Like the ferments in pan- 
creatic juice and saliva, diastase can only act in an alkaline 
medium, and therefore should not be given until, at least, two 
hours after a meal. Emulsions of cod-liver oil in it are frequently 
useful. A mixture of extract of malt and iron is also valuable, 
(pyrophosphate of iron, 2 ; water, 3 ; dissolve and add extract 
of malt, 95. Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr.). 

CHONDRUS. 

IRISH MOSS. — Chondrus crispus and Chondrus mammilosus (Nat. 
Ord. Algce). Ireland, United States. 

Characters. — Yellowish or white, hairy, translucent, many-forked; seg- 
ments flat, wedge-shaped or linear ; it has a slight seaweed odor, and a mucil- 
aginous, somewhat saline taste. 

Dose, 2 to 4 dr. 

Uses. 

Irish Moss is not only a demulcent but as well is a useful 

article of diet. 

GLYCERINUM. 

GLYCERIN.— C 8 H 6 (OH) 8 . 

Source. — It is a product of the manufacture of soap from fat (see p. 11), 
and should contain not less than 95 per cent, of absolute glycerin. 

Characters. — These are well known. It is soluble in water and alco- 
hol. Its sp. gr. is not less than 1.250. It is formed in the making of lead 
plaster (see p. 140). 

Dose, 5 to 60 m. 

Preparations. 

1. Glyceritum Amyli.— Starch, 10 ; glycerin, 90. 

2. Glyceritum Vitelli.— Fresh yolk of egg, 45; glycerin, 55. 

3. Mucilago Tragacanthae. — Tragacanth, 6; glycerin, 18; by 
maceration with water and straining to 1 00. 



468 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Glycerin is also contained in many extracts and fluid extracts, Massa 
Hydrargyri and Pilulae Phosphori. 

Action. 

External. — As glycerin is an excellent solvent for numer- 
ous bodies, such as iodine, bromine, alkalies, tannic acid, many 
neutral salts, alkaloids, salicin, &c, it is a good vehicle for ap- 
plying these substances to the skin and to sores. It does not 
evaporate nor turn rancid, and is powerfully hygroscopic. 

Internal. — In man the only visible effect produced by its 
administration is purging. This occurs with quite small doses 
if it is given by the rectum, but large doses are necessary if given 
by the mouth. It is absorbed from the alimentary canal, and is 
to a slight extent a food, for some of it is oxidized in the body. 
Sometimes its administration leads to the appearance in the urine 
of a body which reduces cupric oxide and gives the fermentation 
test for sugar. There has been much dispute as to whether 
glycerin can control nitrogenous metabolism, but it appears that 
it cannot in any way save the waste of nitrogenous tissues. It 
probably has some influence on the amount of glycogen in the 
liver. It has also been thought to prevent artificial glycosuria, 
but this is doubtful. 

Very large doses in animals cause the urine to be dark from 

the presence of the coloring matter of the blood, although there 

are no corpuscles in it \ they also lead to loss of muscular 

strength, lethargy, dryness of mucous membranes, collapse and 

death. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Glycerin is much employed as a basis for appli- 
cations to the skin and the eye. . It is commonly used for 
chapped hands and slight excoriations. It is readily absorbed 
when rubbed into the skin, therefore it is a convenient vehicle for 
the absorption of substances by the skin. Belladonna mixed with 
glycerin is often rubbed in when we desire its local anodyne 
action {see p. 285). 

Internal. — As glycerin is sweet it is an excellent flavoring 



OLEIC ACID. 469 

agent. It is demulcent, and is used as a vehicle for applying 
substances, such as tannic acid, to the throat. It is rarely given 
by the mouth for any medicinal virtue. It has been administered 
for dyspepsia, for diabetes, and as a nutritive agent, but in each 
case without any good result. One to two fluid drachms injected 
up the rectum, or a glycerin suppository, form an excellent means 
of opening the bowels in simple constipation, especially when the 
faeces are in the sigmoid flexure and rectum. The result is 
prompt, often occurring within less than half an hour. No pafn 
nor constitutional disturbance is produced. 

ACIDUM OLEICUM. 

OLEIC ACID.— HC 18 H 8S 2 . 

Source. — Made by saponifying oils and fats with superheated steam. 
The oleic acid is separated from the solid fats present by pressure. In the 
case of olive oil the reaction isC 3 H 5 (C 18 H 33 2 )3-|-3H 2 0:^3HC 18 H330 2 -|-C3H 5 
(OH) 3 (glycerin). 

Characters. — A straw-colored liquid, nearly odorless and tasteless. 
very faintly acid. By exposure it darkens in color and becomes rancid. It 
becomes semi-solid at 40 F. Sp. gr. 0.800 to 0.810. Solubility. — Not in 
water. Easily in alcohol, chloroform, and ether. 

Impurities. — It is rarely pure, usually containing stearic and palmitic 
acids. 

Preparations. 

1. Oleatum Hydrargyri.— (^ p. 174). 

2. Oleatum Veratrinae. — (see -p. 375). 

Lead plaster contains oleate of lead. 

There is some doubt whether the pharmacopceial oleates are chemical 
combinations or simple solutions. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Oleic acid is used as a solvent for remedies which it is desired 
to apply by means of cutaneous inunction, for it more readily 
penetrates the skin than fats and oils. 

ALTHAEA. 

MARSHMALLOW.- The root of Althcea officinalis (Nat. Ord. 
MalvacecB). United States. 



470 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — In cylindrical pieces, from 3 to 6 in. long, about ^ in. in 
diameter, deeply wrinkled ; externally white, marked with a number of circular 
spots : internally whitish and fleshy. It has a faint aromatic odor and a 
sweetish, mucilaginous taste. 

Preparation. 

Syrupus Altheae. — Althea, 4; sugar, 60; water to 100. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Marshmallow is used as as a demulcent, and in irritation and 
inflammation of mucous membranes. 

ALMOND. 

AMYGDALA DULCIS. — Sweet Almond. Synonym. — Jordan almond. 
The ripe seed of the sweet almond tree, Amygdalus communis, var. dulcis 
(Nat. Ord. Rosacea). Malaga. 

Characters.— More than I in. long; oblong, acute at one end, rounded 
at the other, flattened ; brown, slightly rough exterior. Taste sweet and 
nutty. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Oleum Amygdalce Ex- 
pressu7n (see p. 471), 50 per cent, a fixed oil. (2) Emulsin and other albu- 
minous bodies. 

Impurity. — The bitter almond, giving an odor of prussic acid when 

rubbed with water. 

Preparations. 

1. Mistura Amygdalae.— Sweet almond, 6; acacia, 1 ; sugar, 3; 
distilled water, 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

2. Syrupus Amygdalae. — Sweet almond, 10 ; bitter almond, 3; 
sugar, 50; orange flower water, 5 ; water to 100. 

Dose, indeterminate. 

AMYGDALA AMARA.— Bitter Almond. The ripe seed of the 
bitter almond tree, Amygdalus communis, var. amara (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). 
Mogadore. 

Characters. — Like the sweet almond, but broader and shorter, with a 
bitter taste, and giving off an odor of ratafia when rubbed up with water. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are— (1) Oleum Amygdalce Ex- 
pressum (se. p. 471), 50 per cent., the same fixed oil as in the sweet variety. (2) 
Emulsin. (3) Amygdalin, which yields Oleum Amygdalce Amarcc (synonym. 
— Volatile oil of bitter almonds). Sp. gr. 1.060 to 1.070. This oil does not 



ALMOND. 471 

exist in the bitter almonds, but it is obtained by distilling them with water. 
It is very important to distinguish it from the Oleum Amygdalae Expressum, 
which is harmless, but the oil of bitter almonds is usually very poisonous from 
admixture of prussic acid; for if moisture has had access to the glucoside 
amygdalin, C 20 H 27 NO 11 , on which, in the presence of water, the emulsin in 
the almonds acts as a ferment, the essential oil of bitter almonds, glucose, and 
prussic acid are formed, C 20 H 27 NO n +2H 2 O=C 6 H 5 COH (the volatile oil) -f- 
HCN-f-2C 6 H 12 6 . The oil when separated from the prussic acid is not 
poisonous, and is used to flavor sweets. An artificial oil of bitter almonds 
called nitro-benzol is often substituted, and has caused death. 

Dose, y> to l / 2 m. 

Preparation, 

Syrupus Amygdalae (See above). 

OLEUM AMYGDALA EXPRESSUM.— Expressed oil of al- 
mond. 

Source. — Obtained by expression from either sweet or bitter almond. 

Characters. — Pale yellow, nearly inodorous, with an oleaginous, nutty 
taste. Slightly soluble in spirit, easily in ether or chloroform. Sp. gr. 0.914 
to 0.920. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

OLEUM AMYGDALA AMAR^E. 

Source. — An oil obtained from bitter almond, by maceration with water 
and subsequent distillation. 

Characters. — A colorless thin liquid of a peculiar odor. Sp. gr. 1.060 
to i .070. Soluble in 300 parts of water, and in alcohol. 

Dose, y$ to l / 2 m. 

Preparations. 

1. Aqua Amygdalae Amarae. — Oil of bitter almond, 1 ; distilled 
water, 999. By filtration. 

Dose. 2 to 4 fl. dr. 

2. Unguentum Aquae Rosae. — Synonym. — Cold Cream. Ex- 
pressed oil of almond, 50; spermaceti, 10; white wax, 10; rose 
water, 30. By melting. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The sweet almond is demulcent. Its most important medi- 
cinal use is that it is made into flour to replace starchy food in 
cases of diabetes. Biscuits are made of the flour. These are very 
palatable, are a good nutritive food, and contain very little starch. 



472 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

The only objection to them is their price. With a little care 
they can be made at home The flour of other nuts, as Brazil 
nuts, has been used, but it is not nearly so palatable. 

The almond mixture is a very pleasant vehicle for the suspen- 
sion of insoluble substances, and the powder is a palatable basis 
for powders. 

Oleum Amygdalae Expressum might be used for the same pur- 
poses as olive oil. It is pleasanter but very expensive. 

TRAGACANTHA. 

TRAGACANTH. — A gummy exudation obtained from incision into the 
stem of Astragalus gummifer and other species (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). 
From Asia Minor. 

Characters. — In white or yellowish, thin bands, of varying size or 
shape, marked with ridges, somewhat translucent, tough, but more pulverizable 
at a temperature of 120 F. Odorless and almost tasteless. Yen- sparingly 
soluble in cold water, but swells into a gelatinous mass, which is tinged violet 
(not so deep as the color given by starch) by tincture of iodine. Resembling 
tragacanth. — Scilla, which is thicker and opaque. 

Impurities. — Other gums. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Bassorin, a gum (C 12 
1^20^10) 9 33 F^ 1 * cent -5 on ly slightly soluble in water, unfermentable. (2) 
Arabin, another gum, 53 per cent., soluble in water, very like the arabin of 
acacia; but it is precipitated by acetate of lead. (3) A little starch. 

Preparatio?i. 
Mucilago Tragacanthae. — See Glycerin, p. 467. 
Tragacanth is contained in several troches. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Tragacanth is a demulcent, and as such may be soothing 
when applied to a sore throat. Its chief use is to suspend in- 
soluble bodies as resins, oils, and insoluble powders. The muci- 
lage is better for this purpose because it is less liable to ferment. 

ACACIA. 

Synonym. — Gum arabic. A gummy exudation from Acacia Verek (Xat. 
Ord. Leguminosce), and from other species of Acacia. Kordofan. 

Characters. — Roundish or vermicular tears or masses. Colorless, or 



QUINCE SEED. 473 

with a yellowish-brown tint. The tears are either opaque from numerous 
minute fissures and brittle, or they are glistening, transparent and difficult to 
break. No odor. Taste, bland, mucilaginous. Solubility. — Freely in water, 
not in alcohol. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is arabin, or arable acid, C 6 H 10 O ]5 ; 
most of it is combined with calcium, but some with magnesium and potassium. 
It is unaffected by acetate of lead. 

Impurities. — Starch, gum resins. 

Incompatibles. — Alcohol, sulphuric acid, borax, per-salts of iron, and 

subacetate of lead. 

Preparations. 

1. Mucilago Acaciae. — Acacia, 34; water to 100. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

2. Syrupus Acaciae. — Mucilage of acacia, 25 ; syrup, 75. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Gum aeacia is contained in Mistura Amygdalae, Mistura Glycyrrhizse 
Composita, Pulvis Cretse Compositus, and in some Trochisci. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Gum acacia is demulcent. It is used to suspend insoluble 
substances, as oils, resins, and insoluble powders. A fluid ounce 
of most oils or resinous tinctures requires 3 3 of mucilage of 
acacia for suspension, but copaiba requires 10 3. A disadvantage 
of it is that it is liable to ferment and decompose. It may give 
rise to indigestion and diarrhoea. 

CYDONIUM. 

QUINCE SEED.— The seed of Cydonia vulgaris (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). 
Austria, United States. 

Characters. — Well known. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is Cydonin. Symbol, C 18 H 28 O u . 

Preparation. 

Mucilago Cydonii. — Cydonium, 2 distilled water, 100. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Quince mucilage is used for the same purposes as the other 
mucilages. 



474 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

ULMUS. 

Synonym. — Slippery Elm. The inner bark of Ulmus fulva (Nat. Ord. 
Ulmece). United States. 

Characters. — In flat pieces, varying in length and width, about y% in. 
thick, tough, pale brownish- white, the inner surface finely ridged; fracture, 
fibrous and mealy ; the transverse section delicately checkered ; odor, slight, 
peculiar; taste, mucilaginous, insipid. 

Preparation. 

Mucilago Ulmi. — Elm, 6; boiling water, ioo. 
Dose, i to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Slippery-elm bark, is an excellent demulcent. It is especially 

recommended in dysentery, diarrhoea and diseases of the urinary 

passages. 

GLYCYRRHIZA. 

LIQUORICE ROOT.— The root and subterranean stems or stolons, 
fresh and dried, of Glycyrrhiza glabra (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). Cultivated 
in Britain. 

Characters. — Long cylindrical pieces, smooth when fresh, furrowed 
when dried; pliable; yellowish-brown or reddish externally, yellow and juicy 
internally; sickly earthy odor. When fresh, taste sweet and mucilaginous, 
slightly acid when dried. Resembling liquorice. — Pyrethrum and Taraxacum, 
which are not sweet. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Glycyrrhizin, a yellow 
amorphous glucoside, C 24 H 36 9 , probably in combination with ammonia. 
With acids this yields a very bitter substance, glycyrrhetin and glucose. (2) 
Asparagin. (3) Grape sugar, resin, starch, gum, malic acid, etc. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Glycyrrhizae. Synonyjn. — Commercial extract of 
liquorice. 

Characters. — In flattened cylindrical rolls, from 6 to 6^ in. 
long, and from ^ to i T J g in. thick ; of a glossy black color. It breaks 
with a sharp, conchoidal, shining fracture, and has a sweet peculiar 
taste. Not less than 60 per cent, of it should be soluble in cold water. 

2. Extractum Glycyrrhizae Purum. — By maceration and per- 
colation with water of ammonia and distilled water. Evaporation. 

Dose, freely. 



FLAXSEED. 475 

3. Extractum Glycyrrhizae Fluidum. — By maceration and per- 
colation with water of ammonia and diluted alcohol. Evaporation. 

Dose, 1 fl. dr. 

4. Glycyrrhizinum Ammoniatum. — Glycyrrhiza, by maceration 
and percolation with water of ammonia and water ; precipitation with 
sulphuric acid, solution of water of ammonia, and drying. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

5. Pulvis Glycyrrhizae Compositus. See Senna, p. 376. 

6. Mistura Glycyrrhizae Compositus. Synonym. — Brown Mix- 
ture. 

Pure extract of glycyrrhiza, 3 ; sugar, 3 ; acacia, 3 ; camphorated 
tincture of opium, 1 2 ; wine of antimony, 6 ; spirit of nitrous ether, 3 ; 
water, 70. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

7. Trochisci Glycyrrhizae et Opii. [See Opium, p. 263.) 

Liquorice or its preparations are contained in many preparations, gener- 
ally to cover their nauseous taste. They hide very well that of aloes, cascara 
sagrada, chloride of ammonium, hyoscyamus, senega, senna, turpentine, and 
bitter sulphates, as sulphate of quinine. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Liquorice is an excellent demulcent for sore throats. It is 

used to conceal the taste of nasty medicines, and as a basis for 

pills. The compound liquorice powder is laxative by virtue of its 

senna and sulphur. 

LINUM. 

FLAXSEED. Synonym. — Linseed. The ripe seeds of Linum 
usitatissimum, flax (Nat. Ord. Linacece). Cultivated in Britain. 

Characters. — Small, flat, oval, pointed, with acute edges; brown, 
smooth, shining externally, yellowish- white within; odorless; testa muci- 
laginous. 

Composition. — The covering contains much mucilage. The interior 
contains a fixed oil (30 per cent.), which is glyceryl united with linoleic acid. 
It is viscid and yellow, and is commonly called "drying oil" because it 
unites with oxygen and becomes resinoid on exposure. There is no starch 
nor sugar in linseed. 

OLEUM LINI. Synonym. — Linseed oil. A fixed oil expressed irom 
flaxseed, without heat. 



476 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — A yellowish or yellow, oily liquid, having a slight, pe- 
culiar odor, a bland taste, and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. about 0.936. 
Soluble in 5 parts of absolute alcohol and 1.5 parts of ether. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Flaxseed tea (flaxseed, 150 gr. ; liquorice, 50 gr. ; boiling 
water, io5) is a common domestic demulcent ; the large quan- 
tity of mucilage it contains forms a coating for the pharynx and 
mouth, and thus relieves cough due to sore throat. It is said to 
be slightly diuretic. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

A flaxseed poultice (1 to 10 of boiling water) is a very com- 
mon means of applying warmth and moisture to a part. It is 
used to relieve pain, and as a mild irritant to accelerate inflam- 
mation and the bursting of an abscess, or as a counter-irritant 
in all sorts of deep-seated inflammations. The poultices should 
not be too thick, and should be smeared with oil to prevent their 
sticking to the skin. 

Flaxseed oil is applied to burns. Mixed with an equal quan- 
tity of lime water it forms carron oil, which is a substitute for 
Linimentum Calcis. 

CETRARIA. 

ICELAND MOSS. — The lichen Cetraria islandica (Nat. Ord. 
Lichenes). Iceland. 

Characters. — Foliaceous, branched, crisp, smooth, brown or grayish- 
white above, whitish beneath. Odor, none when dry, like seaweed when 
moist. Taste mucilaginous, and bitter. A strong decoction becomes gela- 
tinous on cooling. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Lichenin, or lichen 
starch, 70 per cent. (2) Cetraric acid, a bitter principle, 2 per cent. (3) 
Lichesterinic acid. 

Preparations. 

Decoctum Cetrarise. — Cetraria, 5. By boiling in water and 
straining to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. oz. 



aspidium. 477 

Action and Therapeutics. 
The decoction is demulcent, and may be given in sore throat. 
The moss is a food, but it is very seldom used. 



GROUP X. 

Vegetable drugs which are used to kill parasites. 

A. Anthelmintics for the various species of Tapeworm. 
Aspidium, Pomegranate, Brayera, Koosso, Kamala, Pepo. 

B. Anthelmintics for the Roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides). 
Santonica, Spigelia, Chenopodium, Azedarach. 

C. Anthelmintics for the Threadworm ( Oxyuris vermicularis). These 
are described under the head of astringents [see p. 458). 

D. Parasiticides used for pediculi. 
Stavesacre, Picrotoxin. 

ASPIDIUM. 

FILIX MAS. Synonym. — Male Fern. The rhizome with the per- 
sistent basis of the petioles of Aspidium Filix-mas and Aspidium marginale 
(Nat. Ord. Filices), collected late in autumn; divested of its scales, roots and 
all dead portions, and carefully dried at a gentle heat. Should not be used if 
more than a year old. Britain. 

Characters. — 3 to 6 or more in. long. The rhizome ^ to I in. in di- 
ameter, entirely covered by the curved, angular, dark brown bases of the 
petioles, and thus it seems larger than it is; brown externally, yellowish 
white or brownish within. Odor feeble, disagreeable. Taste sweetish and 
astringent at first, subsequently bitter and nauseous. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (I) Filicic acid, a colorless, 
crystalline body, said to be the active principle. (2) A fixed oil. (3) A vol- 
atile oil. (4) Tannic and gallic acids. (5) Resins. 

Dose, 30 to 90 gr. powdered. 

Preparation. 

Oleoresina Aspidii. — By percolation in stronger ether and evap- 
oration. 

Dose, X to 1 fl - dr - 

Action and Therapeutics 

Male fern is the most certain anthelmintic for the tape- 
worm we have. It may be flavored with ginger or peppermint. 



478 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

The intestine should first be emptied with a little castor oil to en- 
sure the worm not being protected by food. Then the male fern 
should be administered, and about twelve hours afterwards 
another dose of castor oil should be given to clear away the 
dead worm. Very little food should be taken during the treat- 
ment, and the head of the worm should be carefully searched for 
in the motion. 

Recently several cases of poisoning have been reported pre- 
sumably not due to an excessive dose, but to the oil administered 
at the same time with it. 

GRANATUM. 

POMEGRANATE. — The bark of the root of Punica Granatum 
(Nat. Ord. Granatacce). South of Europe. 

Characters. — Small quills or fragments, externally yellowish-gray, 
wrinkled or cracked, with faint longitudinal striae, or more or less furrowed 
with corky bands. Internally yellow, nearly smooth. Fracture short. Odor- 
less. Taste astringent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Tannin, 20 to 28 per 
cent. (2) Pelletierine, ]/% per cent., a colorless volatile oily alkaloid. (3) 
Isopelletierine, another liquid alkaloid. (3) A kind of mannite. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies, lime water, metallic salts, gelatine. 

Dose, ^ to 1^ dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The bark of the pomegranate root is a powerful astringent, 
and the decoction (1 to 10) may be used as a gargle for a sore 
throat. In large doses it is emetic and purgative. It is believed 
to be anthelmintic for the tapeworm. It is usually said that the 
pelletierine (dose of tannate, 3 to 6 gr.) is the active anthelmintic 
principle; but according to some the tapeworm is not killed, 
but is expelled by the purgative, by which a dose of the decoc- 
tion is usually followed. 

BRAYERA. 

CUSSO. Synonym. — Kousso. The dried panicles of the female 
flowers of Bray era anthelmintic a (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). Abyssinia. 

Characters. — In compact clusters or rolls about 10 in. long, or in small 
brownish or reddish fragments. Odor tea-like. - Taste bitter. Separate pan- 



KAMALA, PUMPKIN SEED. 479 

icles, branched, zigzag, with hairs and glands on them, and a large bract at 
the base of each branch. Flowers numerous, small, shortly stalked, unisex- 
ual, male brownish, female reddish. Two bracts at the base of each flower. 
Calyx hairy, veiny ; ten segments on two alternating whorls. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Koussin, a neutral active 
principle soluble in alkalies. (2) Oil, gum, tannic acid. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Brayerae Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

2. Infusum Brayerae. — Brayera, 6; boiling water to 100. 
Dose, 4 to 8 fl. oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Kousso is rarely given in England, but it is used elsewhere as 
an anthelmintic for all species of tapeworm. 

KAMALA. 

KAMALA. Synonym. — Rottlera. — A powder which consists of the 
minute glands and hairs from the surface of Mallotus philippinensis (Nat. Ord. 
Euphorbiacece). India. 

Characters. — Fine, granular, mobile, brick-red. No odor. Nearly 
tasteless. Solubility. — Even boiling water takes up hardly anything. Alco- 
hol, ether, or chloroform forms deep red solutions. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Rottlerin, a neutral prin- 
ciple. (2) A resin. (3) Tannin. (4) Red coloring matter. 

Dose, 60 to 120 gr. Usually given with tamarinds. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Kamala is an anthelmintic. It will kill the Tcenia solium, 
and probably also the Oxyuris vermicularis and the Ascaris 
lumbricoides. It is a purgative. It is not much used in England. 

PEPO. 

PUMPKIN SEED.— The seed of Cucurbita Pepo (Nat. Ord. Cucur- 
bitacece). United States. 

Characters. — About ^ in. long, broadly ovate, flat, white, nearly 
smooth, with a shallow groove parallel to the edge ; containing a short, coni- 
cal radicle, and two flat cotyledons ; inodorous, bland and oily. 

Dose, 1 to 3 oz. 



480 organic materia medica. 

Uses. 

Pepo administered as an emulsion, is one of the most efficient 
and harmless taeniafuges. 

SANTONICA. 

SANTONICA. Synonym. — Levant Wormseed. The unexpanded 
flower heads or capitula of Artemisia maritima, var. Stechmanniana (Nat. 
Ord. Compositce). Russia. 

Characters. — ^ in. long, oblong-ovoid, obtuse, pale greenish-brown, 
nearly smooth, resembling seeds in appearance, but consisting of from twelve 
to eighteen imbricated, involucral scales, with a broad, thick, yellowish-green 
midrib, enclosing three to five somewhat tubular florets. Odor, if rubbed, 
strong, peculiar, camphoraceous. Taste bitter, camphoraceous. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Santonin (q. v.). (2) A 
volatile oil. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

SANTONINUM. — Santonin (C 15 H 18 3 ). A neutral crystalline princi- 
ple obtained from Santonica. 

Source. — Boil santonica with slaked lime and water. Strain, and from 
the hot fluid, precipitate the santonin with hydrochloric acid. Wash it with 
ammonia and water. Dry. Decolorize with alcohol and charcoal, and let it 
crystallize out from the alcohol. 

Characters. — Colorless, flat, glittering, prismatic crystals, turning yellow 
on exposure to light. Tasteless or feebly bitter. Solubility. — Not at all in 
mineral acids, feebly in cold water, easily in chloroform. It forms santonates 
with alkalies. 

Dose, ^ to 1 gr. (child), 2 to 10 gr. (adult). 

SODII SANTONINAS.— Symbol, 2NaC 15 H u 4 , 7H 2 0. 
Source. — By the action of sodium bicarbonate upon santonin. 
Characters. — Colorless, transparent, tubular, rhombic crystals, having a 
somewhat bitter taste. Soluble in 3 parts of water and in 12 parts of alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

Preparation, 

Trochisci Sodii Santoninatis. — Santoninate of sodium, 100; 
sugar, 2000; tragacanth, 50 grains; orange flower water, to make 1 00 
troches. 

Dose, 1 to 5. 

Action. 

Santonin is anthelmintic, killing the roundworm, As- 
caris lumbricoides, and according to some authorities the Oxyuris 



SPIGELIA. 481 

vermicularis, but this is doubtful. It has no action on tapeworms, 
as Santonin is absorbed as sodium santoninate. Medicinal doses 
will usually cause the urine, if it is acid, to be a greenish-yellow or 
saffron color, and if it is alkaline to be purplish red. This is due 
to the excretion in that fluid of some substance resulting from the 
changes undergone by santonin in the body. It is slightly 
diuretic. Often even small doses lead to xanthopsy — that is to 
say, everything the patient sees has a yellow tint ; probably this 
is the result of the staining of the tissues of the eye yellow. 

Several cases of fatal poisoning by santonin are on record. 
Cerebral symptoms are very prominent. Thus convulsions, accom- 
panied by unconsciousness, trismus, and dilated pupils, are gen- 
erally present. The surface becomes cold, there is sweating, 
there may be trembling, the pulse and respiration become weaker 
and weaker, and death takes place from cardiac and respiratory 
failure. The sodium salt is especially dangerous. 

Therapeutics. 

Santonin is used solely to kill intestinal worms. The dose of 
it should be given on an empty stomach, and should be followed 
in two hours by a purgative, such as calomel, which acts on the 
small intestine, for this is the part inhabited by the worms killed 
by santonin. It is certainly very efficacious for the Ascaris 
lumbricoides. As already mentioned, probably it has no effect 
on the Oxyuris vermicularis. 

SPIGELIA. 

PINK ROOT. — The rhizome and rootlets of Shigella marilandica 
(Nat. Ord. Loganiacece). United States. 

Characters. — Rhizome 2 in. or more long, about )/% in. thick, horizon- 
tal, bent, somewhat branched, on the upper side with cup-shaped scars ; on 
the lower side with numerous, thin, brittle rootlets about 4 in. long ; dark 
purplish-brown ; somewhat aromatic, sweetish and bitter. Resembling Spigelia 
root. — Phlox Carolina, but the rootlets are brownish-yellow, rather coarse, 
straight, and contain a straw-colored wood underneath a readily removable 
bark. 

41 



482 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Spigelian Fluidum. — Spigelia. By maceration and 
percolation with diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, % to 2 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Spigelia is one of the most powerful anthelmintics. It may 
give rise to symptoms of narcotic poisoning, which, however, 
may be obviated by combination with a cathartic like senna. 

CHENOPODIUM. 

AMERICAN WORMSEED.— The fruit of Chenopodium ambrosio- 
ides, var. anthelminticu7?i (Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacece). United States. 

Characters. — Nearly y 1 ^ in. in diameter, depressed-globular, glandular, 
dull-greenish or brownish, the integuments friable, containing a lenticular, 
obtusely-edged, glossy, black seed. It has a peculiar, somewhat terebinthinate 
odor, and a bitterish, pungent taste. 

Dose, 15 to 30 gr. 

OLEUM CHENOPODII. — A volatile oil distilled from chenopodium. 
Characters. — A colorless liquid, of a peculiar odor and bitterish taste. 
Sp. gr. about 0.920. 
Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

Action and Uses. 

Wormseed is one of the most efficent anthelmintics, par- 
ticularly against Ascarides, but should be followed by a cathartic. 

AZEDARACH. 
AZEDARACH.— The bark of the root of Melia Azedarach (Nat. Ord. 
Meliacece). Southern United States. 

Characters. — Curved pieces or quills ; outer surface red-brown ; inner 
surface whitish or brownish ; almost inodorous, sweetish, afterwards bitter and 
nauseous. 

Dose, 2 to 8 dr. 

Uses. 

Azedarach is used in an infusion for the same purposes as 
pinkroot, as an anthelmintic, for which it enjoys a considerable 
reputation in the Southern States. 

STAPHISAGRIA. 

STAVESACRE.— The ripe seed of Delphinium Staphisagria (Nat. 
Ord. Ranunculacece). Europe. 



PICROTOXIN. 483 

CHARACTERS. — Irregularly triangular or obscurely quadrangular, arched, 
blackish brown when fresh, but becoming dull grayish brown by keeping. 
Testa wrinkled and deeply pitted, nucleus soft, whitish and oily. No marked 
odor. Taste nauseous, bitter and acrid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A fluid oil. (2) A very 
poisonous alkaloid, delphine, acting like aconitine. (3) Other alkaloids. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Stavesacre is only used as a parasiticide to kill pediculi. 
The affected part is rubbed with the ointment, 1 to 2 of ben- 
zoinated lard, which, in the case of pediculi vestimentorum is 
allowed to soak, day and night, into the garments next to the 
skin, for the parasite inhabits them. 

PICROTOXINUM. 

PICROTOXIN. — Picrotoxin (C 9 H 10 OJ. A neutral principle obtained 
from the seeds of Anamirta paniculata, Indian berry or fish-berry, the fruit of 
which is known as Cocculus indicus (Nat. Ord. Menispermacece). India. 

Source. — Obtained by exhaustion with alcohol, evaporation, and purifi- 
cation. 

Characters. — Colorless shining prisms with an intensely bitter taste. 
Solubility. — I in 150 of cold, 1 in 25 of boiling water. Freely in ether, not 
in oil. It does not form salts. Probably commercial picrotoxin is a mixture 
of several bodies. 

Dose, j^g to ^ gr. in a pill. 

Action. 

External. — Picrotoxin is very destructive to lower forms of 
life, and is therefore antiparasitic. 

Internal. — It is a powerful poison, causing convulsions, 
hyperpyrexia and stimulation of the respiratory center. Its mode 
of action is unknown. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — An ointment of 80 gr. of the seeds to 1 oz. of 
lard has been applied to the scalp to kill pediculi. It must be 
employed with caution, for this strong poison can be absorbed if 
the skin be broken. It is an expensive ointment. 

Internal. — Picrotoxin is used empirically, to check the night 



484 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

sweating of phthisis. A single dose should be given in the 
evening. Its action is uncertain, but sometimes it succeeds. 
Many other diseases have been treated with it, but there is no 
evidence that it has benefited them. Tablets, each containing 
1-100 of a grain, are prepared for subcutaneous injection. One 
should be dissolved in a few minims of water immediately be- 
fore use. 



GROUP XI 



Vegetable drugs apparently having only a diuretic 

action. 

Uva Ursi, Scoparius, Apocynum, Triticum, Marrubium. 

UVA URSI. 

UVA URSI. Synonym. — Bearberry. The dried leaves of Arctosta- 
phylos Uva-ursi (Nat. Ord. Ericacece). Britain. 

Characters. — Very shortly stalked, obovate or oblong-spatulate, coria- 
ceous, y^ to ^ in. long. Upper surface smooth and shining ; under paler, 
minutely reticulated. Margin entire and slightly revolute. Odor hay-like 
when powdered. Taste very astringent. Resembling Uva Ursi. — Senna {see 
p. 375) and buchu [see p. 436). 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Arbutin (C 12 H 16 7 ), a 
bitter crystalline glucoside yielding glucose, hydrochinon, and methyl-hydro" 
chinon. (2) Ericolin, a bitter crystalline glucoside. (3) Urson, a tasteless 
neutral body. (4) Tannic and gallic acids, 33 per cent. 

Incompatibles. — Iron, lead and silver salts, alkaloids, and gelatine. 

Preparation. 

Extractum U vae Ursi Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with glycerin and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, % to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

Uva Ursi is a well-marked diuretic, and is astringent and 
disinfectant to the urinary mucous membrane. Its dis- 
infectant action is probably due to the decomposition of the arbu- 
tin into glucose and hydrochinon, for after Uva Ursi is given 
hydrochinon is found in the urine, and it is a very energetic anti- 



UVA URSI, BROOM. 485 

septic. This decomposition must take place in the kidneys, for 
hydrochinon is a powerful poison. Against this being the rea- 
son of the disinfectant action of Uva Ursi, it is urged that giving 
arbutin does not disinfect the urine; but others deny this, and 
the probability is that the first-mentioned view is correct. Arbu- 
tin is a powerful diuretic. The urine may be a pale greenish 
to dark greenish-brown color. Hydrochinon is also found in the 
urine in carbolic acid poisoning {see p. 252). The astringent 
action of Uva Ursi on the urinary tract is usually ascribed to the 
gallic and tannic acids, but as these are not remote astringents 
this is most likely wrong. 

Therapeutics. 

Uva Ursi is given to disinfect the urine in the same class of 
cases as buchu — that is to say, in pyelitis, cystitis and gonorrhoea. 

SCOPARIUS. 

BROOM. — The tops of Sarothamnus Scoparius (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce). 
Indigenous. 

Characters. — Branched, straight, dark-green, nearly smooth, tough 
twigs, with five wing-like angles. Occasionally with leaves attached. Taste 
bitter and nauseous. When bruised gives a peculiar odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Scoparin (C 21 H 22 O 10 ), a 
yellow, crystalline, neutral principle, said to be diuretic. (2) Sparteine, an 
oily, liquid, volatile alkaloid. (See Appendix). 

Dose, % to 1 dr. 

Action. 
Broom has no external action, and very little beyond the fact 
that it is diuretic is known about its internal action. 

Therapeutics. 
Broom is a very useful diuretic. It is usually given in com- 
bination with other diuretics in cases of dropsy from heart dis- 
ease or interstitial nephritis. If there is acute renal inflammation 
it should not be prescribed. 

APOCYNUM. 

CANADIAN HEMP.— The root of Apocynum cannabinum (Nat. Ord. 
Apocynacece). 



486 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Long, cylindrical, % in. thick, pale brown, longitudinally 
wrinkled and transversely fissured ; inodorous, taste bitter, disagreeable. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) An amorphous, resinous 
substance, apocynin. (2) A glucoside, apocynein. 

Dose, 10 to 20 gr. 

Uses. 

Canadian Hemp has been found to be beneficial in dropsy, 

probably because of its diuretic action, when used as an infusion 

(1 to 16), of which the dose is one to two fluid ounces, twice or 

three times daily. 

TRITICUM. 

TRITICUM. Synonym. — Couch Grass. The rhizome of Triticum 
repens (Nat. Ord. Graminacece), gathered in the spring and deprived of the 
rootlets. United States. 

Characters. — Very long, about -^ in. thick ; creeping, smooth, hollow 
in the centre, straw-yellow ; inodorous and of a sweet taste. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Tritici Fluidum. — By percolation with boiling water, 
evaporation, addition of alcohol and filtration. 
Dose, 1 to 8 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Triticum is a diuretic, and is used as a sedative in inflamma- 
tion of the genito-urinary membrane. 

MARRUBIUM. 

HOREHOUND. — The leaves and tops of Marrubium vulgar e (Nat. 
Ord. Labiatce). United States. 

Characters. — Leaves about I in. long, opposite petiolate, roundish 
ovate, obtuse, coarsely crenate, strongly rugose, downy above, white-hairy be- 
neath ; branches quadrangular, white, tormentose ; flower is dense, axillary, 
woolly whorls, with a stiffly, ten-toothed calyx, a whitish bi-labiate corolla 
and four included stamens, aromatic and bitter. 

Dose, 1 to 2 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Horehound is largely a diuretic, in large doses laxative, and 
may be so given as to increase the action of the skin and kidneys, 
but its action is not marked. 



ERGOT. 487 



GROUP XII. 

Vegetable drugs acting locally on unstriped muscle, 
especially that of the uterus. 

This group contains Ergot, Ustilago, Cotton Root Bark, Caulophyllum. 

ERGOTA. 

ERGOT OF RYE. — The sclerotium (compact mycelium), of Claviceps 
purpurea (Nat. Ord. Fungi), growing between the pales of and replacing the 
grain of Secale cereale, the common rye (Nat. Ord., Graminacece). Spain and 
Russia. 

Ergot is no part of the rye grain, which completely disappears as the ergot 
develops, 

Characters. — Subcylindrical, tapering at both ends, curved, y$ to 1^ 
in. long. Longitudinally furrowed on both sides, especially the concave, often 
cracked. Dark violet-purple without, pinkish-white within. Fracture short. 
Odor peculiar, disagreeable. Taste mawkish, rancid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Sphacelinic acid, a non- 
nitrogenous unstable body, insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol. Its alkaline 
salts are soluble in water, but readily decomposed. It is believed to be the 
active agent in contracting the blood-vessels. (2) Cornutine, an alkaloid be- 
lieved to be the agent which contracts the uterus. The so-called sclerotinic 
acid which can be extracted from ergot is really a mixture of sphacelinic acid 
and cornutine. (3) Ergotinic acid, a glucoside. (4) A fixed oil, 30 per cent. 
(5) Trymethylamine, to which the odor is due. (6) Tannin. Many other 
bodies have been found in ergot, but those given are believed to be the more 
important ; the composition of ergot is not yet certainly made out. 

Dose, 30 to 60 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Ergotae Fluidum.— By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol and water, evaporated with diluted hydrochloric acid. 

Dose, y z to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Vinum Ergotae. — Ergot, 15. By percolation with stronger 
white wine to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

3. Extractum Ergotae. Synonym. — Ergotin. Fluid extract of 
ergot, 500. By evaporation to 1 00. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 



488 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

It is said that ammonia is the best solvent for the active principles of 
ergot. The Brit. Pharm. Conference gives the following : Tinctura Ergotce 
Ammoniata. — Ergot, io oz. ; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 20 oz. Dose, 10 to 

6otn- 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — The unstriped muscle 
of the intestine is stimulated by ergot, and this leads to greatly 
increased peristaltic movements, sometimes strong enough to 
cause relaxation of the bowels. The vessels of the intestine are 
constricted, in part because of the contraction of their own mus- 
cular fibers, and in part because of the contraction of those of the 
intestinal muscular coat. The result is that the intestine is 
blanched. 

Blood. — The active principles of ergot are readily absorbed, 
but they are not known to produce any effect on the blood. 

Heart. — The activity of the heart muscle is depressed by ergot ; 
therefore the rate of the pulse falls, and consequently at first the 
blood-pressure falls. 

Vessels.— But the fall of blood-pressure is soon followed by a 
great rise, and this is due to the general contraction of the 
arteries all over the body;, they can, in some parts, be seen to 
become smaller. The veins are contracted to a less extent. This 
vascular contraction does not take place if the spinal cord is de- 
stroyed, from which it is fair to infer that it is due to the action 
of ergot on the vaso-motor centers in the cord. Because it con- 
tracts the arterioles it is haemostatic. If the ergot be taken for 
a long time the contraction of the arteries leads to gangrene of 
various parts of the body, and this was a prominent symptom of 
the ergotinism (chronic poisoning by ergot) which used to be 
seen in the very poor who could get no better food than rye in- 
fested with Claviceps purpurea. Enormous single doses of ergot 
appear to paralyze the vaso-motor centers, and then the blood- 
pressure falls from vascular dilatation and cardiac depression. 

Nervous system. — Medicinal doses, or even an enormous single 
dose, very rarely affect the nervous system, but if ergot be taken 
for a long time a peculiar train of symptoms sets in; they con- 



ERGOT. 489 

stituted the second variety of chronic ergotism in the days when 
diseased bread was eaten. The sufferer first complained of itch- 
ing and tingling, and a sensation of insects running over the skin; 
this was followed by numbness and local anaesthesia. These 
symptoms first appeared in the hands and feet, but spread over 
the whole body. They were followed by tonic contractions 
of various muscles, especially those of the extremities. The mus- 
cular power was lessened, and the gait was staggering. Later on 
there was diminution of sensation. Dimness of vision 
and loss of hearing were sometimes present. This variety of 
ergotism was usually accompanied by vomiting and diarrhoea. 
Death occurred from asphyxia, due to spasm and weakness of the 
respiratory muscles. 

Uterus. — Ergot powerfully excites the pregnant uterus of 
women and lower animals to contract and expel its contents. It 
is therefore called an ecbolic. It is not decided whether this 
effect is due to the action of the drug on the organ itself or on 
the spinal centres. Ergot has very little power to cause contrac- 
tion of the unimpregnated uterus. 

The flow of urine, of saliva, of sweat, and of milk is diminish- 
ed by ergot, probably because of the general vascular constriction. 

Therapeutics. 

The chief use of ergot is to cause efficient contraction of the 
uterus after labor, and so to diminish the risk of post-partum 
haemorrhage. If there is any likelihood of profuse bleeding it 
should be given subcutaneously, so that it may act rapidly. 

Ergot should be administered cautiously before the child is 
expelled, for the contractions produced by it not only gradually 
become more severe but more prolonged, so that ultimately the 
uterus remains tightly contracted for several minutes \ this is, of 
course, dangerous to the life of the child, and if the resistance be 
very great, may lead to rupture of the uterus. 

This drug has often been given as a haemostatic in haemoptysis 
and other haemorrhages from different parts of the body. Some 
authors claim great success. Frequently it fails, and unless it 
42 



490 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

quite closes the bleeding vessel it is likely that it may, by the gen- 
eral rise of blood-pressure, do more harm than good. It is 
difficult to gauge its value, for so many haemorrhages will stop even 
if no drugs are given. It has been used to check the night-sweats 
of phthisis, and as an antigalactogogue. 

It is often desirable to combine the fluid extract of ergot with 
perchloride of iron. Because of the tannin in the ergot an inky 
mixture results, but this may be clarified by the addition of a little 
dilute phosphoric acid, and the taste may be covered with chloro- 
form water. 

USTILAGO. 

USTILAGO. Synonym. — Corn smut. Ustilago Maydis (Nat. Ord. 
Fungi), grown upon Zea Mays (Nat. Ord. Graminacece). United States. 

Characters. — Irregular, globular masses, sometimes 6 in. thick, con- 
sisting of a blackish membrane, inclosing innumerable, brownish-black, globu- 
lar and nodular spores ; odor and taste unpleasant. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Ustilagin. (2) Propyl- 
amine. (3) Sclerotic acid. (4) A fixed oil. (5) Resin. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Ustilago is believed to have the same action as ergot. It is 

supposed to increase the frequency, severity and duration of labor 

pains. 

GOSSYPII RADICIS CORTEX. 

COTTON ROOT BARK.— The bark of the root of Gossypium 
herbaceum and of other species of Gossypium (Nat. Ord. Malvacece). United 
States. 

Characters. — In thin flexible bands or quilled pieces ; outer surface 
brownish -yellow ; inner surface whitish, of a silky lustre ; inodorous ; taste very 
slightly acrid and faintly astringent. 

Preparation, 

Extractum Gossypii Radicis Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation with glycerin and alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose X to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Cotton Root Bark has the same action as Ergot, and is an 
emmenagogue and an abortifacient. It is used as an uterine 



COLCHICUM. 



49I 



haemostatic in the treatment of menorrhagia and metrorrhagia 
from various causes and particularly for uterine fibroids. 

CAULOPHYLLUM. 

BLUE COHOSH. — The rhizome and rootlets of Caulophyllum thalic- 
troides (Nat. Ord. Berberidacece). IJnited States. 

Characters. — Rhizome about 4 in. long, and about % to f in. thick, 
bent ; externally gray-brown, internally whitish. Rootlets numerous, matted, 
about 4 in. long, and ■£$ in. thick, rather tough ; nearly inodorous ; taste sweet- 
ish, slightly bitter and somewhat acrid. 

Composition. — Its chief constituents are — (1) Leontin. (2) Two resins. 
(3) ^m. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Uses. 

It is used to increase the force of uterine contractions, is sup- 
posed to be capable of arresting abortion, and to be useful in 
dysmenerrhoea. 



GROUP XIII. 

Colchicum. 

The sole value of this drug is that it is a specific for gout. 

COLCHICUM. 

COLCHICI RADIX. — The fresh corm of Colchicum autumnale 
(Nat. Ord. Melanthacece), collected about the end of June; and the same 
stripped of its coats, sliced transversely, and dried at a temperature not ex- 
ceeding 150 F. Britain. 

Characters. — Fresh corm about 1 in. long, I in. broad, conical, flat- 
tened on one side, rounded on the other ; outer coat thin, brown, membranous, 
inner coat reddish-yellow. Internally white, solid, yielding milky juice of 
bitter taste and disagreeable odor. Dried slices ^ to |- in. thick, yellowish 
at circumference, indented one side, convex the other, and thus reniform in 
outline. Surfaces firm, whitish, amylaceous. Fracture short. Odor none. 
Taste bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Colchicine, the active 
principle ; a bitter alkaloid in small crystals, soluble in water and alcohol, but 
changed by most acids into colchiceine, a neutral substance, and a resin. (2) 
Veratrine {see p. 334), in traces combined with gallic acid. (3) A fixed oil. 
(4) Starch, sugar, gum. 



49 2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Incompatibles. — All astringent preparations, tincture of iodine, and 
tincture of guaiacum. 

Dose 2 to 8 gr. in powder. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Colchici Radicis. — Colchicum Root, by macera- 
tion and percolation in acetic acid and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. 

2. Extractum Colchici Radicis Fluidum. — Colchicum Root, 
by maceration and percolation in alcohol and water and evaporation. 

Dose, 2 to 8 m. 

3. Vinum Colchicum Radicis. — Colchicum Root, 40; by per- 
colation with stronger white wine to 100. 

Dose, 5 to 15 m. 

COLCHICI SEMINA.— The seed of Colchicum autumnale, col- 
lected when fully ripe about the end of July, and carefully dried. 

Characters. — -^ in. in diameter, subglobular, pointed at hilum, red- 
dish-brown, rough, very hard and difficult to powder. Odor none. Taste bit- 
ter, acrid. Resembling colchicum seeds. — Black mustard seeds (see p. 401). 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The same as of the 
corm, but the proportion of the active alkaloid colchicine is larger. (2) A vol- 
atile oil in addition. 

Preparations. 

1. Extracti Colchici Seminis Fluidum. — By maceration and 
percolation in alcohol and water, and evaporation. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

2. Tinctura Colchici. — Colchicum seed, 15 ; by maceration and 
percolation in diluted alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

3. Vinum Colchici Seminis. — Colchicum seed, 15; by macera- 
tion with stronger white wine and filtration to 100. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Action. 

External. — When applied to the skin colchicum acts as an 
irritant, causing hyperaemia and smarting, and the dust inhaled 
gives rise to sneezing. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — In moderate medicinal 
doses colchicum produces no effect on most persons beyond 



colchicum. 493 

slightly increasing the secretion of bile, but with others it causes 
loss of appetite, and a little purging, nausea, and colic. In 
larger doses it gives rise, in all persons, to great abdominal pain, 
vomiting, and profuse diarrhoea with the passage of blood. It is 
in fact a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant. There is also 
great prostration, the pulse becomes small, rapid, and thready, 
the skin cold and bedewed with sweat, and the respiration slow ; 
death is due to collapse. It is extremely probable that these re- 
sults are not owing to any action of colchicine on the heart or 
respiration, but that they are merely the consequence of the 
severe gastro enteritis, which, it is well known, will cause fatal 
collapse. These effects are produced if colchicine is injected 
subcutaneously, a circumstance which shows that this alkaloid is 
an active principle of the drug, and that it is excreted into the in- 
testine. It is a curious fact that after a certain point, increasing 
the quantity does not lead to an increase of the symptoms 

Nervous system. — Medicinal doses have no effect. Even a 
fatal dose does not impair consciousness. In frogs the reflex ex- 
citability of the cord is at first increased by large doses, and 
hence there may be convulsions. In mammals these do not take 
place, but in all animals ultimately the spinal motor centers are 
powerfully depressed, and the creature is paralyzed. Motor 
nerves and muscles are unaffected. Sensory nerves are somewhat 
depressed. 

Kidney, — The most discordant statements have been made 
about the action of colchicum on the urine, but it has not been 
definitely shown that either the quantity or composition is altered. 
After death by poisoning, the alkaloid is found in the blood and 
in most of the organs of the body. 

Therapeutics. 

Colchicum is hardly ever used except for gout. Given during 
the attack, it most markedly relieves the pain ; in smaller doses 
given between the attacks it diminishes their severity. It is often 
very useful for dyspepsia, eczema, headache, neuritis, conjunc- 
tivitis, bronchitis, and other conditions which, when occurring in 



494 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

those suffering from gout, are probably related to it. Occasion- 
ally it is combined with other cholagogues, especially if it is de- 
sired to give these remedies to a person who is the subject of 
gout. If any symptoms of gastric or intestinal irritation appear, 
its use must be discontinued for a time. The seeds are said to be 
more active than the corm. 



GROUP XIV. 
Two Stearoptenes. 

Both are antiseptic and are local anaesthetics. 
Camphor, Thymol. 

CAMPHORA. 

CAMPHOR. — C 10 H 16 O. A stearopten obtained from the wood of 
Cinnamomum Camphor a (Nat. Ord. Lauracece). Imported in the crude state 
and purified by sublimation. East Indies, China, and Japan. 

Source. — The wood of the tree is submitted to distillation, and the dis- 
tilled product on cooling deposits crystals of camphor, which are purified by 
pressure and sublimation. 

Characters. — Solid, colorless, translucent, crystalline masses ; if large 
they are fissured. Tough, but readily powdered if mixed with alcohol, ether, 
or chloroform. Odor powerful, characteristic. Taste pungent, bitter, followed 
by a sensation of cold. Sp. gr. 0.990 to 0.995. Burns readily with a bright 
smoky flame. Volatilizes slowly at ordinary temperatures. Sublimes entirely 
when heated. Solubility. — 1 in 700 of water, I in 2 of oil of turpentine, I in 
4 of olive oil, readily in milk, ether, spirit, or chloroform. When triturated 
with either chloral hydrate, carbolic acid, or thymol it forms a thick liquid. 

Composition. — It is oxidized terebene, C 10 H 16 . It is often called laurel 
camphor. All camphors or stearoptens are oxidation products of hydrocarbons 
which contain 10 atoms of carbon (terpenes), and constitute the greater part of 
volatile oils, of which terebene or oil of turpentine (C 10 H 16 ) is best known. 
Isomeric with the terpene of oil of turpentine we have terpenes of oil of 
lavender, oil of peppermint, oil of chamomile, oil of caraway, oil of cloves, 
&c. Menthol (C 10 H 20 O) (q. v.) is a camphor or stearoptene derived from the 
terpene (C 10 H 20 ) called diamylene. Borneo camphor, which is often in com- 
merce substituted for the officinal camphor, is derived from Dryobalanops 
aromalica, and is known from the officinal variety by sinking in water — is 
C l0 H 18 O ; that is to say, an oxidized product of the terpene called camphene 



CAMPHOR. 495 

or menthene, C 10 H 18 (existing in peppermint oil, see p. 420). Thymol and 
caruol {see pp. 421 and 497), C 10 H u O, are stearoptens or camphors, the 
result of oxidation of the terpene cymol, C 10 H U . 
Dose, 3 to 20 gr. 

CAMPHORA MONOBROMATA.— Monobromated Camphor. C 10 
H 15 BrO. 

Source. — By heating bromine and camphor, solution in benzin, and 
recrystallization from hot alcohol. 

Characters. — Colorless, prismatic needles or scales, having a mild 
camphoraceous odor and taste, and a neutral reaction. Almost insoluble in 
water, it is freely soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform and fixed oils ; slightly 
soluble in glycerin. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Aqua Camphora. — Camphor, 8; solution in alcohol, 16; per- 
colation in alcohol with distilled water to 1 000. 

Dose, % to 2 fl. oz. 

2. Linimentum Camphorae. — Camphor, 20; cottonseed oil, 80. 

3. Linimentum Saponis. See Sapo, p. 465. 

4. Spiritus Camphorae. — Camphor, 10; alcohol, 70; water, 20. 
Dose, 30 to 60 m. In milk or on sugar, as water precipitates the 

camphor. 

5. Tinctura Opii Composita. See Opium, p. 264. 

6. Ceratum Camphorae. — Camphor liniment, 3 ; olive oil, 3 ; 
cerate, 85. 

Camphor is contained in the following liniments : Belladonna, Soap, 
Compound Mustard. 

Action. 

External. — -Camphor, although not a volatile oil, acts very 
much like one. Thus it is a direct cutaneous stimulant, dilating 
the vessels of the skin, and at first causing a sensation of 
warmth, but subsequently a slight degree of local anaesthesia. 
It is a feeble antiseptic. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — In the stomach it is 
mildly Stimulant, dilating the vessels, increasing the flow of 
gastric juice and the peristalsis. Hence it is stomachic and 
carminative. It has a slight reflex stimulating effect on the 
heart. In medicinal doses it has little action on the intestines. 



496 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Circulation. — It quickly enters the blood both from the skin 
and the intestine, and is said to increase the number of leuco- 
cytes in that fluid. To a slight extent the heart is excited directly 
by it in addition to the reflex stimulation just mentioned. 

Respiration — Probably some camphor is excreted by the 
bronchial mucous membrane, the vascularity and secretion of 
which it consequently stimulates. It has the reputation of being 
a feeble expectorant. 

Skin. — It is a mild diaphoretic. This effect is believed to 
be due to the action of the drug on the central nervous system. 
Probably some of the camphor is excreted by the skin, for the 
sweat may smell of it. 

Nervous system, — Different people are differently susceptible 
to the effects of camphor. Five to ten grains will in some per- 
sons produce a feeling of exhilaration, or in others a sense of 
comfort and quietness. Larger doses cause great excitement, 
giddiness, a slow pulse, and ultimately headache, burning pains 
in the stomach, faintness, confusion of ideas, delirium, violent 
convulsions, insensibility, a small feeble pulse, and finally death 
from collapse. It is a mild antipyretic. 

Sexual organs. — Camphor is reputed to be an aphrodisiac, 
but this is probably incorrect. 

Kidneys. — It is not excreted as camphor, but as complex sub- 
stances, one of which is campho-glycuric acid. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Its stimulating effects make camphor a favorite 
ingredient of many liniments. It is constantly rubbed into the 
skin in some form or another as a mild irritant or counter-irritant 
in, for example, chronic rheumatism, chronic inflammatory in- 
durations, and the slighter chest complaints of children ; and al- 
so in myalgia, neuralgia, lumbago, and sciatica, in which cases, 
because of its property of causing local anaesthesia, it relieves 
pain. In addition to the pharmacopoeial preparations, a Chloro- 
formum Camphorae (camphor, 2 parts, dissolved in chloroform, 1 
part) may be used. The liquid preparations with chloral, car- 



OIL OF THYME. 497 

bolic acid, and thymol are excellent local anodynes for neuralgia, 
and may be dropped into a tooth to relieve toothache. 

Internal. — Camphor is used as a carminative, especially in 
neurotic subjects. It is a common remedy for a cold in the head, 
and is probably beneficial on account of its stimulation of the 
circulation and its slight antipyretic and diaphoretic effects. 
Many expectorant mixtures contain camphor. It has been given 
as an antispasmodic in hysteria and allied conditions, and some 
state that it is of use in cholera Monobromated Camphor re- 
sembles but is not identical with the bromides in its therapeutical 
action. 

OLEUM THYMI. 

OIL OF THYME.— A volatile oil distilled from Thymus vulgaris 
(Nat. Ord. Labiate.) Britain. 

Characters. — A colorless or pale yellow, the liquid, having a strong 

odor of thyme, a warm, pungent, and afterwards cooling taste. Sp. gr. about 

0.880. It is readily soluble in alcohol. 

Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

THYMOL. 

THYMOL. — C 10 H 13 OH. A stearopten obtained from the volatile oils 
of Thxmus vulgaris (Nat. Ord. Labiate), Britain; Monarda punctata (Nat. 
Ord. Labiates), Britain; and Carum Ajowan (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferce), Asia. 

Source. — Saponify the oils with caustic soda, and treat the soap thus 
formed with hydrochloric acid ; or it is made by distillation of the oil and ex- 
posing the portion that first distils over to a low temperature. 

Characters. — Large, oblique, colorless crystals of the hexagonal 
stem. Odor of thyme. Taste pungent, aromatic. Solubility. — 1 in 1200 
of cold water, 1 in 90 of glycerine, 1 in 2 of olive oil. Freely in alcohol, 
ether, or chloroform. Sp. gr. as a solid 1.028. 

Dose, 1 /l to 2 gr. as a pill 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Thymol is a more powerful antiseptic than carbolic acid. 
It has been used in antiseptic surgery for dressing wounds. A 
saturated solution of thymol gauze, and thymol ointment are 
employed. It is non-irritating. It has considerable antipar- 
asitic powers, and solutions in alcohol or ether (i in 15) have 
been used in ringworm. A solution in glycerine (1 in 200) has 



498 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

been recommended for sore throats. A little alcohol is very use- 
ful for facilitating the aqueous solution of thymol. The odor is 
likely to attract house flies. 

It is of no value for internal use. 



GROUP XV 



Vegetable drugs acting by virtue of important acids 

they contain. 

Lemon juice (citric acid), Prunus Virginiana (hydrocyanic acid), 
Benzoin (benzoic acid), Chrysarobinum (chrysophanic acid), Rhus Toxi- 
codendron (toxicodendric acid). 

LEMON. 

LIMONIS CORTEX. — Lemon peel. The outer part of the rind of 
the fresh fruit of Citrus Limonum (Nat. Or&.Aurantiacece). Southern Europe. 

Characters. — Thin, pale yellow pieces, rough on the outer surface 
from the presence of glands containing the oil ; inner surface has a little of 
the inner white rind attached. Fragrant odor ; bitter aromatic taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) The officinal Oleum 
Limonis (see below). (2) A bitter principle, hesperidin. 

Preparations. 

1. Spiritus Limonis. — Essence of Lemon. — Oil of lemon, 6; 
lemon peel, 4 ; by maceration and percolation to 100. 

Dose, % to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Syrupus Acidi Citrici (see citric acid, p. 215). 

Oleum Limonis. — The volatile oil (C 10 H 16 ) of Citrus Limonum. 
It is said to consist of two isomeric oils. 

Source. — Obtainable by expression. 

Characters — It is pale yellow, fragrant, warm, and bitter. Sp. 
gr. about 0.850. Soluble in alcohol. 

Oil of le??ion is contained in Spiritus Ammoniae Aromaticus. 

Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The same as those of orange. The oil applied externally is 
rubefacient. 



LEMON. 499 

LI M ON IS SUCCUS. — Lemon Juice. The freshly expressed juice of 
the ripe fruit of Citrus Limonum. 

Characters. — A pale yellow, slightly turbid liquid. Taste acid. Odor 
of lemons. Sp. gr. not less than 1.030. 

Composition. — Lemon juice contains about 7 per cent, of citric acid 
(H 3 C 8 H 5 7 ), free, and combined to form potassium and other salts. Also 
malic acid (H 3 C 4 H 3 5 ) and phosphoric acid. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. oz. 

Preparations. 

Syrupus Limonis. — Lemon juice, 40 ; fresh lemon peel, 2 ; sugar, 
60; by solution in water and filtration to 100. 
Dose, yi to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Acidum Citricum, see p. 215. 

Lemon juice is contained in Mistura Potassii Citratis. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Lemon juice is used to relieve thirst, and to make effervescing 
mixtures and drinks. Its action in the body is the same as that 
of citric acid {see p. 215J. Three or four ounces of lemon juice 
daily is of great benefit in scurvy. Why this is we do not certain- 
ly know. Lemon juice is probably more efficacious than citric 

acid. 

PRUNUS VIRGINIANA. 

The bark of the Prunus serotina (Nat. Ord. Ai?iygdale<z) , collected in 
autumn, United States. When this drug is treated with water, hydrocyanic 
acid is formed. 

Characters. — In curved pieces or irregular fragments, T 3 ^ in. or more 
thick, outer surface greenish-brown, or yellowish-brown, smooth and somewhat 
glossy, marked with transverse scars ; inner surface somewhat striate ; taste 
astringent, aromatic and bitter. 

Preparations. 

1. Extractum Pruni Virginianae Fluidum. Wild cherry, diluted 
alcohol, glycerin and water, by percolation, distillation and evaporation. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Infusum Pruni Virginianae. Wild cherry, 4; macerated, 
then percolated to 100 parts. 

3. Syrupus Pruni Virginianae. Wild cherry, 12; sugar, 60; 
glycerin, 5 ; water, to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 



500 organic materia medica. 

Therapeutics. 

The same as for diluted hydrocyanic acid (see p. 258). It is 
much used as a remedy for coughs, and as a vehicle for tincture 
of digitalis it adds to its efficacy. 

BENZOINUM. 

BENZOIN. — Benzoin. Synonym. — Gum Benjamin. A balsamic resin 
obtained by incisions into the bark of Styrax Benzoin (Nat. Ord. Styracece). 
Siam and Sumatra. 

Characters. — Masses of tears loosely agglutinated, but generally closely 
compacted by a deep brown translucent substance. Tears vary in size up to 
an inch or more ; on breaking they either show an opaque milk-white or red- 
dish-brown appearance. Benzoin is very brittle, and easily softens by the 
heat of the mouth. Little taste. Odor balsamic. Gives off on heating, fumes 
of benzoic acid. Solubility. — I in 5 of warm alcohol. Easily in ether or potash. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Benzoic acid (q. v.) 12 
to 20 per cent. (2) Cinnamic acid (C 9 H 9 2 ), a trace. (3) Resins. (4) Vola- 
tile oil. 

Preparations. 

1. Adeps Benzoinatus. — Benzoin, 2; prepared lard, 100. 

2. Tinctura Benzoini. — Benzoin, 20; by maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol to 100. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

3. Tinctura Benzoini Composita. Synonym. — Friar's balsam. 
Benzoin, 12; storax, 8; balsam of tolu, 4; purified aloes, 2; by macer- 
ation with alcohol and filtration to 100. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

ACIDUM BENZOICUM.— Benzoic Acid. HC 7 H 5 2 . 

Source. — From benzoin by sublimation. 

Characters. — Light feathery almost colorless flexible crystalline plates 
or needles. Solubility. — I in 500 of cold water, I in 15 of boiling water, 
readily in solutions of alkalies. Phosphate of sodium or borax aids in solu- 
tion in water. It sublimes on heat. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Benzoic acid is contained in Tinctura Opii Camphorata. 

AMMONII BENZOAS.— NH 4 C 7 H 5 2 . 

Source. — Dissolve benzoic acid in ammonia and water, and evaporate. 



BENZOIC ACID. 501 

Characters. — Colorless, four-sided laminar crystals, with odor of ben- 
zoic acid. Solubility. — I in 5 of water, I in 28 of alcohol. 

Incompatibles. — Per-salts of iron, Liquor Potassae, and acids. 
Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

SODII BENZOAS.— NaC 7 H 5 2 , H 2 0. 

Source. — Add carbonate of sodium to a solution of benzoic acid, and 
crystallize. 

Characters. — A white semi-crystalline or amorphous powder. Odor 
faintly benzoic. Taste sweetish, alkaline. Solubility. — Easily in water, I in 
45 of alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Action. 

As far as is known the action of benzoic acid, its salts, and 
benzoin, is the same. We shall therefore only here describe the 
actions of benzoic acid. 

External. — Benzoic acid is a powerful antiseptic. The 
growth of many forms of bacteria is completely inhibited by a 
solution of 1 in iooo. In a concentrated form it is a stimulant 
and irritant when applied to the skin. 

Internal. — The only fact about the internal action of benzoic 
acid that has been worked out is that when it is given by the 
mouth, hippuric acid appears in the urine. This happens 
by combination with a molecule of glycocoll, C 7 H 6 2 +C 2 H 5 N0 2 = 
C 9 H 9 N0 3 (hippuric acid) +H 2 0. The source of the glycocoll is 
not known. The conversion probably takes place in the kidneys^ 
for after giving large doses of benzoic acid it alone can be found 
in the blood, and if the renal arteries are tied, no hippuric acid is 
formed, but if only the ureters are tied it is formed. Also benzoic 
acid has been successfully converted into hippuric acid by passing 
blood containing benzoic acid but no glycocoll, slowly through 
the kidneys removed directly after death. Hippuric acid has been 
found in the urine of new-born children when benzoic acid has been 
given to the mother shortly before delivery. If hippuric acid is 
given by the mouth benzoic acid is found in the blood, but hip- 
puric reappears in the urine. The hippuric acid in the urine 
renders alkaline urine, acid, and it stimulates and disinfects 



502 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

the urinary mucous membrane. Occasionally succinic as well as 
hippuric acid appears in the urine. 

Benzoic acid or some derivative of it is probably excreted in 
the bronchial secretion, for the bronchial mucous membrane is 
stimulated by the administration of benzoic acid, the mucus being 
increased in quantity and disinfected. The acid is therefore ex- 
pectorant. The same effects are brought about if the vapor of 
benzoic acid is inhaled. 

It is said to be excreted by the skin and salivary glands, and 
thereby to increase their activity. It is slightly diuretic. 

Benzoic acid and its salts are antipyretic, and it is stated that 
they are even more powerful than salicylic acid. How they pro- 
duce a fall of temperature is not known. Metabolism is believed 
to be generally increased. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Lint soaked in the compound tincture is a very 
favorite dressing for wounds and sores of all sorts. Its chief 
advantage is the antiseptic power it possesses. Its stimulating 
effect is also valuable. 

Internal. — Lungs. — Benzoin, benzoic acid and its com- 
pounds are very commonly employed as stimulating, disinfecting 
expectorants in cases of bronchitis or phthisis in which the expec- 
toration is foul and scanty. The vapor from a mixture of a pint 
of water at 140 F. and a fluid drachm of compound tincture 
of benzoin is often inhaled for bronchitis and laryngitis 

Urinary organs. — Benzoic acid is a most valuable drug for 
acidifying the alkaline decomposing urine which is formed in 
pyelitis and cystitis, and for stimulating and disinfecting the urin- 
ary tract in the same conditions. Benzoate of ammonium is so 
much more soluble than benzoic acid that it is to be preferred to 
it. Spirit of chloroform covers the taste. It may with advantage 
be combined with the urinary sedatives, as tincture of hyoscyamus. 

CHRYSAROBINUM. 

GOA POWDER. — Chrysarobin. Syitonyms. — Goa powder, Araroba 
powder. The exudation of the stem and branches of Andira Araroba (Nat. 



GOA POWDER, POISON IVY. 503 

Ord. Legu7?iinos(E), dried and powdered, containing about 80 per cent, of pure 
chrysarobin (incorrectly called chrysophanic acid), which as the drug is kept 
becomes oxidized into chrysophanic acid. East Indies. 

Characters. — A pale orange yellow minutely crystalline powder, taste- 
less and inodorous. Solubility. — Very sparingly in water, and sparingly in 
spirit. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is chrysarobin. Synonyms. — Rhein, 
Chrysophan {see p. 372). Symbol, C 30 H 26 O 7 . In the fresh plant it probably 
exists as a glucoside, but this is slowly oxidized into chrysophanic acid (C 10 
H 8 3 ) and glucose. 

Preparation. 

Unguentum Chrysarobini. — Chrysarobin, 10 ; benzoinated lard, 
90. 

Action. 

External. — It is a powerful irritant to the skin, which it 
stains yellowish brown. Linen is stained the same color. (The 
stain may be removed by a weak solution of caustic soda or 
chlorinated lime.) It is antiparasitic. 

Internal. — It is cathartic and very irritating to the stom- 
ach and bowels, causing vomiting and purging. It is excreted 
by the kidneys, and stains the urine yellow. 

Therapeutics. 

It is used as an antiparasitic in ringworm, and to excite healthy 
inflammation in chronic cutaneous diseases, especially psoriasis 
and acne rosacea. It has also been given internally for skin dis- 
eases, but as it is so irritating this practice is not advisable. 

RHUS TOXICODENDRON. 

POISON IVY.— The fresh leaves of Rhus Toxicodendron (Nat. Ord. 
Anacardiacecz). United States. 

Characters. — Long-petiolate, trifoliate, the lateral leaflets sessile, about 
4 in. long, obliquely ovate, pointed; the terminal leaflets stalked, ovate or 
oval, pointed with a wedge-shaped base ; when dry, tapering and brittle ; 
inodorous, somewhat astringent and acrid. Resembling Rhus Toxicodendron. 
— Ptelea trifoliata, which are similar in appearance, but have all the leaflets 
sessile. 

Composition. — Its chief constituent is toxicodendric acid. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 



504 organic materia medica. 

Uses. 

The leaves have been used in palsy, nocturnal incontinence 
and cutaneous diseases, but the remedy is a dangerous and prob- 
ably an useless one, for these purposes. 



GROUP XVI. 

Vegetable Drugs only used as Flavoring Agents. 

Rose Petals, Sugar, Balm, Rubus Idseus, Vanilla, Origanum, Salvia, 
Oleum Myrciae, Oleum Sesami. 

ROSE PETALS. 

ROSA GALLICA. — Red Rose. The fresh and dried unexpanded 
petals of Rosa gallica (Nat. Ord. Rosacece). Britain. 

Characters. — Small cone-shaped masses or separate petals ; purplish 
red, velvety. Odor fragrant, roseate. Taste, bitterish, feebly acid, and 
astringent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Oleum Rosce } a volatile 
oil present in minute quantities. It consists of an aromatic elseoptene and 
rose camphor. (2) Tannic and gallic acids. 

Preparations. 

1. Confectio Rosae. — Red rose, 8; sugar, 64; clarified honey, 
12; rose water, 6. 

Dose, 30 to 60 gr. 

2. Extractum Rosae Fluidum. — By maceration with glycerin 
and diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 

Dose, yi, to 1 fl. dr. 

3. Mel Rosae. — Red rose, 8; clarified honey, 92. By percolation 
with diluted alcohol, and evaporation to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

4. Syrupus Rosae. — Fluid extract of rose, 10; syrup, 90. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Red rose is contained in Pilulae Aloes et Mastiches. 

ROSA CENTIFOLIA. Synonym.— Pale or Damask Rose. The 
fresh fully expanded petals of Rosa centifolia (Nat. Ord. Rosacece). Britain. 



SUGAR, BALM. 505 

Characters. — Large, thin, delicate. Odor very fragrant. Taste sweetish 
bitter, and finally astringent. Odor and taste readily imparted to water. 

Preparations. 

1. Aquae Rosae. — Recent pale rose, 40; by distillation in water 
200 to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

2. Unguentum Aquae Rosae. See Almond, p. 471. 

Pale rose is contained in Syrupus Sarsaparillae Compositus. 
Rose water is contained in Mistura Ferri Composita. 

OLEUM ROSiflE.— Oil of Rose. Synonym.-— Otto of Rose, a volatile 
oil distilled from the fresh flowers of Rosa damascena (Nat. Ord. Rosacece). 

Characters. — A pale, yellowish, transparent liquid, having a strong odor 
of rose, a sweetish rather mild taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Sp. gr. about 
0.860. It is but slightly soluble in alcohol. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The preparations of rose petals are pleasant vehicles. The 
infusion (dried petals, 2 \ dilute sulphuric acid, 1 ; water, 80) is 
mildly astringent. 

SACCHARUM. 

SUGAR. — Synonym, — Cane sugar. C 12 H 22 O n . The refined sugar of 
Saccharum ojficinarum (Nat. Ord. Graminaced) . West Indies. 

Characters. — White, dry, hard, distinctly crystalline granules, odorless, 
having a purely sweet taste, and a neutral reaction. Soluble in 0.5 parts of 
water, and in 175 parts of alcohol. 

Preparation. 

Syrupus. — Sugar, 65 ; distilled water by solution by heat, and 
straining to 100. 

Syrupus thus prepared has the sp. gr. 1.3 10. It is used for Syrupus 
Acacise, and other compound syrups. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Sugar is used as a sweetening agent. 

MELISSA. 

BALM. — The leaves and tops of Melissa officinalis (Nat. Ord. 
Labiatce). United States. 

43 



506 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characters. — Leaves are about 2 in. long, petiolate, ovate, obtuse, 
crenate, somewhat hairy, glandular; branches quadrangular; flowers in about 
four-flowered cymules, with a tubular, bell-shaped, five-toothed calyx, a 
whitish or purplish two-tipped corolla, and four stamens ; fragrant, aromatic 
and bitter. 

Dose, 1 to 2 dr. 

Uses. 

Balm is used as a flavoring agent. 

RUBUS IDiEUS. 

RASPBERRY. — The fruit of Rubus idceus (Nat. Ord. Dyadece.) United 
States. 

Characters. — Deprived of the conical receptacle and therefore hollow 
at the base ; hemispherical, red, being hairy, composed of twelve to thirty 
coalesced, small drupes, each one crowned with the withered style ; juice red ; 
of an agreeable odor, and pleasant acidulous taste. 

Preparation. 
Syrupus Rubi Idsei. — Fresh ripe raspberries, 40; sugar, 60. 

Uses. 
Raspberry syrup is used chiefly as a flavoring agent. 

VANILLA. 

VANILLA. — The fruit of Vanilla planifolia (Nat. Ord. Orchidacece). 
West Indies, Mexico and South America. 

Characters. — From 6 to 10 in. long, linear, numerous and bent at the 
base, rather oblique at the apex, wrinkled, somewhat warty, dark brown, 
glossy-leathery, one-celled, and containing a blackish-brown pulp, with numer- 
ous, minute seeds, and more or less acicular crystals ; odor and taste peculiar, 
fragrant. 

Composition. — Its chief constituents are — (1) Vanillin, contained in 
vanilla from 1. 69 to 2.75 per cent. Symbol C 8 H 8 3 . (2) Resin. (3) Wax. 
(4) Tannic acid. Vanilla can be made synthetically from coniferin, from 
guaiacol and is now made from eugenol, C 10 H 12 O 2 , which is oxidized with 
an alkaline solution of potassium permanganate. 

Preparation. 
Tinctura Vanillae. — Vanilla, 10; sugar, 20; by maceration with alco- 
hol and water, to 100. 

Uses. 
Vanilla is used solely as a flavoring agent. 



WILD MARJORAM, SAGE, OIL OF BAY. 507 

ORIGANUM. 

WILD MARJORAM. — The Origanum vulgare (Nat. Ord. Labiatce). 
United States. 

Characters. — Stem branched above, leaves opposite, petiolate, about 1 
in. long, roundish-ovate, obtuse, nearly entire, pellucid-punctate, hairy be- 
neath ; flowers in corymbs, with reddish bracts ; a five-toothed calyx, a somewhat 
two- lipped, pale purple corolla, and four exserted stamens ; aromatic, pungent 
and bitterish. 

Dose, 1 to 2 dr. 

Origanu7?i is used in Vinum Aromaticum. 

SALVIA. 

SAGE. — The leaves of Salvia officinalis (Nat. Ord., Labiates). Europe. 

Characters. — About 2 in. long, petiolate, ovate-oblong, obtuse, finely, 
crenulate, thickish, wrinkled, grayish-green, soft-hairy, and glandular be- 
neath ; aromatic, bitterish ; and somewhat astringent. 

Composition. — It contains — (1) A volatile oil. (2) A terpene, salviol. 
(3) Ordinary camphor. Symbol C 10 H 16 O. 

Dose, % to i dr. 

Preparation, 

Vinum Aromaticum (see Rosemary, p. 405). 

Uses. 

It is used chiefly as a condiment, and it is said to be useful in 
checking the sweats in hectic fever. 

OLEUM MYRCIiSE. 

OIL OF BAY. — A volatile oil distilled from the leaves of Myrcia 
acris (Nat. Ord., Myrtaceoe). West Indies. 

Characters. — A brownish liquid of an aromatic, somewhat clove-like 
odor, a pungent spicy taste, and a slightly acid reaction. Sp. gr. about 1.040. 
Soluble in an equal weight of alcohol. 

Preparation. 

Spiritus Myrciae. Synonyjn. — Bay Rum. Oil of myrcia, 16; 
oil of orange peel, I ; oil of pimento, I ; alcohol, iooo; water, 782. 

Uses. 
Oil of myrcia is used solely as a perfume. 



508 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

OLEUM SESAMI. 

BENNE OIL. — A fixed oil expressed from the seed of Sesamum indi- 
cum (Nat. Ord., Pedaliacece). United States. 

Characters. — A yellowish, oily liquid, inodorous, having a bland, nut- 
like taste, and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. 0.914 to 0.923. 

Uses. 
Benne oil is used in preparing hair oil. 



GROUP XVII. 

Vegetable drugs used only as coloring agents. 

Saffron, Red Saunders. 

CROCUS. 

SAFFRON. — The stigmas of Crocus sativus (Nat. Ord. Iridacece). 
Spain. 

Characters. — Each portion, about 1 in. long, consists of three thread- 
like, orange-red stigmas, thickened and tubular above, notched at the extremi- 
ties, and united below to the top of the yellow style. Flexible, unctuous to 
touch. Odor strong, aromatic. Taste bitter, aromatic. Rubbed on the wet 
finger leaves an intense yellow stain. Colors warm water orange yellow. 
Pressed between filter-paper should leave no oily stain. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Polyckroite, an orange- 
red glucoside yielding glucose and a red coloring matter, crocin. (2) A vola- 
tile oil. 

Impurities. — Marigold, saffron petals, chalk, oil, &c. 

Preparation. 
Tinctura Croci. — Saffron, 10. By maceration and percolation 
with diluted alcohol to 1 00. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Saffron is only used to color preparations. 

SANTALUM RUBRUM. 

RED SAUNDERS.— The sliced or rasped heart-wood of Pterocarptis 
santalinus (Nat. Ord. Legu??iinosce). Ceylon. 



COTTON. 509 

Characters. - Dense, heavy billets ; dark brown externally, internally 
deep blood-red. Chips deep reddish brown. Resembling sandal-wood. — Log- 
wood, which is less dense. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is a blood-red crystalline principle, 
santalic acid or santalin. 

Sandal-wood is contained in Tinctura Lavandulae Composita. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Red Saunders is used to color preparations. 



GROUP XVIII. 

Vegetable substances whose action is mechanical. 

Cotton, Collodion, Oil of Theobroma, Mastic, Gutta-Percha, Benzin, 

Bisulphide of Carbon, Petrolatum, Starch, 

Lycopodium, Quillaia. 

GOSSYPIUM. 

COTTON (Purified or Absorbent). — The hairs of the seeds of Gossypium 
herbaceum (Nat. Ord. Malvacece), and of other species of Gossypium, from which 
the fatty matters and all foreign impurities have been removed. United States. 

Characters. — White soft filaments, each of which is an elongated cell, 
under the microscope appearing as a flattened, twisted band, with slightly 
thickened rounded edges. Inodorous, tasteless. Readily wetted by water, 
which remains neutral . 

PYROXYLINUM. 

GUN COTTON. — Gossypium, 1 ; is immersed in a mixture of sul- 
phuric, 12; and nitric acids, 10; and then drained and dried, after solution 
in alcohol, I ; and ether, 3. Soluble in ether and in alcohol. Leaves no resi- 
due when exploded by heat. 

Preparations, 

1. Collodium. — Pyroxylin, 4; dissolved in stronger ether, 70; and 
alcohol, 26. 

2. Collodium Flexile. — Collodion, 92; Canada turpentine, 5; 
castor oil, 3. 

3. Collodium cum Cantharide. — Cantharides, 60 ; by percolation 
with commercial chloroform, evaporation and solution in flexible collo- 
dium, 85. 

4. Collodium Stypticum. — [See Tannic Acid, p. 456). 



5io organic materia medica. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The use of cotton is well known. Pyroxylinum is only used 
to make collodion. 

Collodion, when painted on the skin, rapidly dries from 
evaporation of the ether, and covers the skin with a thin pro- 
tective film. Collodium Flexile has the same properties, but it 
does not crack, as collodion often does. These preparations are 
protective to small wounds, and are used after slight operations. 

OLEUM GOSSYPII SEMINIS. 

COTTON-SEED OIL.— A fixed oil expressed from the seed of 
Gossypium hei'baceu?n, and other species of Gossypium (Nat. Ord. Malvacece), 
and subsequently purified. United States. 

Characters. — A bright, pale yellow, oily liquid, odorless, having a 
bland, nut-like taste and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. 0.920 to 0.930. It is only 
slightly soluble in alcohol, but readily so in ether. Cotton seed oil is used in 
Linimentum Ammoniae, Linimentum Calcis, Linimentum Camphorae, Lini- 
mentum Plumbi Subacetatis. 

Uses. 
It is used simply as a bland, nutritious oil. 

OLEUM THEOBROM^E. 

OIL OF THEOBROMA. Synony?n.— Cacao butter. A fixed oil 
obtained by expression and heat from the ground seeds of Theobroma Cacao 
(Nat. Ord. Sterculiacece). Demerara and Mexico. 

Characters. — Is of the consistency of tallow ; yellowish with chocolate- 
like odor. Taste bland and agreeable. Fracture clean. Does not become 
rancid on exposure to air. Melts at 86° to 95 ° F. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Stearin, (2) A little 
olein. (3) An alkaloid, theobromine (C 7 H 8 N 4 2 ). 

Action and Therapeutics. 
It is only used to make suppositories. 

MASTICHE. 

MASTIC. — A concrete resinous exudation obtained by incision into the 
bark of the stem and large branches of Pistacia Lentiscus (Nat. Ord. Anacar- 
dietz). From Scio. 



GUTTA-PERCHA, PETROLEUM BENZIN. 5 I I 

Characters. — Small, irregular, yellowish tears, glassy, brittle ; ductile 
when chewed. Reseinbling mastic. — Acacia, which is larger, rougher, and 
more opaque. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — ( 1 ) A resin called mastichic 
acid, 80 to 90 per cent. (2) Another resin, masticin. 

Preparation. 
Pilulae Aloes et Mastiches. — (See Aloes, p. 378). 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Alone, it is used in England as a temporary stopping for teeth. 

GUTTA-PERCHA. 

GUTTA-PERCHA. — The concrete juice of Isonandra Gutta and sev- 
eral other trees of the same natural odor (Nat. Ord. Sapotacece). South America. 

Characters. — Light brown, tough, flexible, plastic at a temperature 
above 120 F. Solubility. — Not at all in water, alcohol, alkalies, or acids. 
Almost entirely in chloroform. Entirely in oil of turpentine, carbon disulphide, 
or benzol. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Gutta-Percha. — Gutta-percha, 9; commercial chloro- 
form, 91 ; carbonate of lead, 10; decant. 

Liquor Gutta Percha is used for preparing Charta Sinapis. 

Uses. 
Gutta percha is used in making splints. 

BENZINUM. 

PETROLEUM BENZIN.— Petroleum ether. A purified distillate 
from American petroleum, consisting of hydrocarbon, and chiefly of the marsh- 
gas series (C 5 H 12 : C 6 H 14 ), having a sp. gr. 0.670 to 0.675. 

Characters. — A transparent, colorless, diffusive liquid, of a strong char- 
acteristic odor; neutral in reaction, insoluble in water, soluble in 6 parts of 
alcohol. 

Uses. 

Benzin is used to obtain volatile oils by percolation, as a sub- 
stitute for ether in making oleoresins, for dissolving fats, resins, 
caoutchouc, and some of the alkaloids. 



5 I 2 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

CARBONEI BISULPHIDUM. 

BISULPHIDE OF CARBON.— CS 2 . 

Source. — By combination of carbon and sulphur, by distillation. 

Characters. — A clear, colorless,, highly refractive liquid, very diffusive, 
having a strong characteristic odor, a sharp aromatic taste, and a neutral reac- 
tion. It is insoluble in water; soluble in ether, alcohol, chloroform, and fixed 
or volatile oils. 

Uses. 
The bisulphide of carbon is used as a solvent. 

PETROLATUM. 

PETROLEUM OINTMENT. — A semi-solid substance, consisting 
of hydrocarbons, chiefly of the marsh-gas series (C 16 H 34 , etc.), obtained by dis- 
tiling the lighter and more volatile portions from American Petroleum, and 
purifying the residue. Melting point 104 F. (softer) to 125 F. (firmer 
variety). 

Characters. — Well known. 

Uses. 
Petrolatum is used as a basis for ointment. 

AMYLUM. 

STARCH. — The fecula of the seed of Triticum vulgare (Nat. Ord. Gra- 
minacece). United States. 

Preparations. 

1. Glyceritum Amyli. — [See Glycerine, p. 467). 

2. Amylum Iodatum. — Iodine, 5 ; by trituration in distilled 
water; addition of starch, 95 ; to make 100; and drying. 

Dose, 1 to 4 dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Starch is chiefly employed for its mechanical properties, on 
account of which it is used as a basis for dusting powders and 
insufflations. The glycerite is a basis for suppositories ; the mu- 
cilage (B. P., 1 to 40) is a basis for ointments, and may be used 
to suspend insoluble powders or oils. 



GUAIACUM. 513 

LYCOPODIUM. 

LYCOPODIUM. — The sporules of Lycopodium clavatum, and of other 
species of Lycopodium (Nat. Ord. Lycopodiacece). Europe and United States. 

Characters. — A fine powder, pale yellowish, very mobile, inodorous, 
tasteless, floating upon water and not wetted by it, and burning quickly when 
thrown into a flame. 

Impurities. — Pollen, starch, and sand. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Lycopodium has a great power of absorbing oils, and oleo- 

resins. It is excellent as a basis of pills, especially as it protects 

hygroscopic substances, for it is powerfully repellant to water. 

It is useful as a dusting powder, and also as a basis for insufflations. 

QUILLAIA. 

QUILLAIA. Synonyms.- — Panama Wood, Soap Bark. The bark of 
the Quillaia Saponaria (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). Peru. 

Characters. — Large, flat pieces, about \ in. thick ; outer surface brown- 
ish-white, often with small patches of brown cork attached, otherwise smooth; 
inner surface whitish, smooth ; fracture splintery, checkered with pale brownish 
bast-fibres imbedded in white tissue ; inodorous, very acrid and sternitatory. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Quillaic acid, a glucoside. 
(2) Saprotoxin, a glucoside. These bodies are very closely allied to the chief 
constituents of senega [see p. 337). 

Uses. 

Quillaia imparts a soapy character to cold water, and has 
been much used to infuse oily liquids through water. The tinc- 
ture (1 to 20 of alcohol) can be used, in doses of 20 to 60 m. 



GROUP XIX. 

Vegetable substances whose action is not known. 

Guaiacum, Xanthoxylum, Pareira, Sarsaparilla, Menispermum, Stil- 
lingia, Lappa, Sassafras, Chelidonium, Calendula, Scutel- 
laria, Dulcamara, Thuja, Viburnum, Chimaphila. 

GUAIACUM. 

GUAIACI LIGNUM. Synonym. — Lignum vitae. The heart-wood 
of Guaiacum officinale ox of Guaiacum sanctum (Nat. Ord. Zygophyllacece) 

44 



514 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Imported from the West Indies, and reduced to the form of chips, raspings, 
or shavings. 

Characters. — Chips, raspings, or shavings of a dark greenish-brown. 
Taste acrid and aromatic. Odor, if rubbed or heated, faintly aromatic. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the resin, 20 to 25 per cent, 
(q. v). 

Guaiacum wood is contained in Decoctum Sarsaparillae Compositum. 

GUAIACI RESIN A. — Guaiac. The resin obtained from the wood of 
Guaiacum officinale or of Guaiacum sanctum by natural exudation or by heat. 

Characters. — Usually in large masses containing fragments of bark and 
wood, occasionally in roundish tears. Surface brown or greenish-brown, 
covered, after exposure, with a greenish powder. Fracture clean and glossy. 
Odor balsamic. When chewed gives acrid sensation in the throat. An alco- 
holic solution gives a clear blue color when applied to the inner surface of a 
potato (fresh protoplasm), or when treated with tincture of iron. Guaiacum 
resin on dry distillation yields guaiacol, also found in creasote {see p. 254), 
Resembling guaiacum resin. — Myrrh, scammony, benzoin, aloes, and resin, but 
these have no green tinge. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are three resins — Guaiaconic acid. 
C 19 H 20 O 5 (70 per cent.) ; guaiac acid, resembling benzoic acid; and guaiaretic 
acid. These are insoluble in water, soluble in alkalies, but precipitated on 
neutralization. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids, spirit of nitrous ether. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Tinctura Guaiaci. — Guaiac, 20. By maceration with alcohol 
and filtration to 1 00. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

2. Tinctura Guaiaci Ammoniata. — Guaiac, 20; by maceration 
with aromatic spirit of ammonia, and filtration to 100. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Guaiacum resin gives rise to an acrid feeling in 
the throat and a sensation of heat in the epigastrium. It in- 
creases the secretions and movements of the intestine and stom- 
ach. Large doses are gastro-intestinal irritants, causing vomiting 
and purging. It reflexly stimulates the heart. 



xanthoxylum. 5 1 5 

Therapeutics. 

Internal. — Guaiacum resin is so nasty and its value so doubt- 
ful that it is rarely ordered. It is used empirically, sometimes 
successfully, for chronic sore throat, especially if the subject has 
had syphilis Lozenges (2 gr. of the resin with black currant 
paste) are prepared. The mixture is said to be a more efficacious 
preparation than the tincture. Thirty grains of the powder itself 
may be placed on the back of the throat and swallowed. Guai- 
acum is a mild purgative, and it has been given as a pill in 
chronic constipation ; it was formerly employed in chronic rheu- 
matism. 

XANTHOXYLUM. 

XANTHOXYLON. Synonym.— Prickly Ash. The bark of the Xatt- 
thoxylum fraxineum and of Xanthoxylum carolinianum (Nat. Ord., Xan- 
thoxylece). United States. 

Characters. — Xanthoxylum fraxineum is in curled or quilled frag- 
ments about 25 m - thick ; outer surface brownish-gray, with whitish patches, 
and minute black dots, faintly formed, with some brown, glossy, straight, two- 
edged spines, linear on the base, and about ^ in. long ; inner surface whitish, 
smooth ; fracture short, non-fibrous, green in the outer, and yellowish in the 
inner layer ; inodorous ; bitterish, very pungent. 

Xanthoxylum carolinianum resembles the preceding, but is about y 1 ^ in. 
thick, and is marked by many conical, corky projections, sometimes ^ in. 
high, and by stout, brown spines rising from a corky base. 

Resembling Xanthoxylum. — Aralia spinosa, but which is nearly smooth 
externally, and beset with slender prickles in transverse rows. 

Composition. — It contains — (1) a volatile oil, (2) a greenish fixed oil, 
(3) resin, (4) gum, (5) a peculiar crystallizable principle. Xanthoxylin, pro- 
bably the same as berberine. 

Preparation. 
Extractum Xanthoxyli Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Action and Uses. 
Xanthoxylum has about the same action as guaiac. It pro- 
duces, when swallowed, a sensation of heat. It enjoys some 
reputation as a remedy for chronic rheumatism, and has been 
used in syphilis and chronic hepatic disorders. Used as a masti- 
catory, it is a popular remedy for tooth-ache. 



5 l6 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

PAREIRA. 

PAREIRA BRAVA. — The dried root of Chondrodendron tomento- 
sum (Nat. Ord. Menispermacece). Brazil. 

Characters. — Long cylindrical twisted pieces, ^f to 2 in. thick ; bark 
thin, blackish-brown, with longitudinal furrows and transverse ridges and fis- 
sures. Internally yellowish or brownish-gray, with circles of porous wood 
and large medullary rays. Waxy when cut. Bitter taste ; no odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is an alkaloid, buxine (also called 
pedosine or cissampeline), identical with berberine {see p. 365). 

Incompatibles. — Per-salts of iron, salts of lead, and tincture of iodine. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Pareirae Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with glycerin and distilled alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Pareira is not known to have any physiological action. It is 
used empirically in chronic inflammation of the genito-urinary 
tract, such as pyelitis, cystitis, gonorrhoea, and gleet. 

SARSAPARILLA. 

JAMAICA SARSAPARILLA. — The root of Smilax officinalis, 
Smilax medica y and of other undetermined species (Nat. Ord. Smilacece). 
Central America. 

Characters. — Six or more feet long, usually folded into bundles about 
18 in. long, 4 to 5 in diameter, bound together by a long sarsaparilla root. 
Roots furrowed, never thicker than a goose-quill, dark brown with numerous 
branched rootlets. Odor none. Taste mucilaginous, and when chewed fee- 
bly bitter and faintly acrid. Resembling Sarsaparilla. — Senega, twisted and 
keeled, hemidesmus, cracked transversely. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Smilacin or parellin, an 
acrid neutral principle closely resembling saponin. (2) Resin, 2]/ 2 per cent. 
(3) Traces of a volatile oil. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies. 

Preparations. 

1. Decoctum Sarsaparillse Compositum. — Sarsaparilla, 10; 
sassafras, 2; guaiacum wood, 2; liquorice, 2; mezereum, I; by boiling, 
maceration in glycerin and water to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. oz. 



CANADIAN MOONSEED, QUEEN S ROOT. 5 I 7 

2. Extractum Sarsaparillse Compositum Fluidum. — Sarsapa- 
rilla, 75; glycyrrhiza, 12; sassafras bark, 10; mezereum, 3. By ma- 
ceration and percolation in glycerin, alcohol and water, and evapo- 
ration, to 100. 

Dose, y 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

3. Extractum Sarsaparillse Fluidum. — By maceration and per- 
colation with glycerin, alcohol and water. Evaporation. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr. 

4. Syrupus Sarsaparillae Compositus. — Sarsaparilla, 150; 
guaiacum wood, 20; pale rose, 12; glycyrrhiza, 12; senna, 12; 
sassafras, 6 ; anise, 6 ; gaultheria, 6 ; sugar, 600. By maceration and 
percolation with diluted alcohol, evaporation to 1 000. 

Dose, ^ to 1 fl. oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Sarsaparilla is not known to have any physiological action. 
It is never given alone, therefore we are ignorant of its therapeu- 
tical effects. Probably it has none. 

MENISPERMUM. 

CANADIAN MOONSEED.— The rhizome and rootlets of Menisper- 
mum canadense (Nat. Ord. Menispe?'macece). United States. 

Characters. — Rhizome several feet long, about j^ in thick, yellowish- 
brown, finely-wrinkled, longitudinally and beset with numerous thin, rather 
brittle rootlets ; nearly inodorous ; taste bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) an alkaloid, menispermin ; 
(2) berberine. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Uses. 

The uses of Menispermum are similar to those of Sarsaparilla. 

STILLINGIA. 

QUEEN'S ROOT.— The root of Stillingia sylvatica (Nat. Ord. Eu- 
phorbiacece). United States. 

Characters. — About 12 in. long, and nearly 2 in. thick, sub- cylindrical, 
slightly branched, compact, wrinkled, tough, grayish-brown, breaking with a 
fibrous fracture, showing a thick bark and porous wood, the inner bark and 
medullary rays with numerous yellowish-brown resin-cells ; odor peculiar, un- 
pleasant ; taste bitter, acrid, pungent. 



5 l8 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Stillingiae Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with diluted alcohol, and evaporation. 
Dose, X to I A- dr - 

Action and Uses. 

Sillingia is in large doses emetic, cathartic but in smaller 

ones, alterative. It is a valuable remedy in syphilis, scrofula, 

cutaneous and hepatic diseases which are benefited by so-called 

alterative medicines. 

LAPPA. 

BURDOCK.— The root of Lappa officinalis (Nat. Ord. Composites). 
United States. 

Characters. — About 12 in. or more long, and about 1 in. thick; nearly 
simple, fusiform, longitudinally wrinkled ; gray-brown, internally paler; odor 
feeble and unpleasant ; taste mucilaginous, sweetish and somewhat bitterish. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Inulin; (2) a glucoside. 

Dose, ^ to 1 dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Burdock is considered to be a diuretic and diaphoretic al- 
terative. It has been recommended in the treatment of various 
chronic skin diseases, especially in psoriasis and acne. 

SASSAFRAS. 

SASSAFRAS. — The bark of the root of Sassafras officinalis (Nat. Ord- 
Lauracece). North America. 

Characters. — Bark externally grayish-brown, rough ; internally smooth, 
glistening, rusty-brown. Odor agreeable, aromatic. Taste astringent, aromatic. 
Wood soft, light, grayish-yellow, taste and odor like bark. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) A volatile oil, which is 
said to consist of two oils, one lighter and the other heavier than water. (2) 
Sassafrin, a peculiar neutral crystalline principle (3) Resin, tannic acid, &c. 

Sassafras is contained in Decoctum Sarsaparillae Compositum. 

SASSAFRAS MEDULLA (Sassafras Pith).— The pith of the Sassa- 
fras officinalis. 

Characters. — In slender, cylindrical pieces, often curved or curled, light- 
spongy, white, inodorous, insipid. Macerated in water it forms a mucilaginous 
liquid, not precipitated in the addition of alcohol. 



CELANDINE, MARIGOLD. 519 

Preparation. 

Mucilago Sassafras Medullar. — Sassafras pith, 2; water, 100; 
by maceration and straining. 

OLEUM SASSAFRAS.— A volatile oil distilled from sassafras. 
Characters. — A colorless or yellowish liquid, having the odor of sassa- 
fras, a warm aromatic taste, and a neutral reaction. Sp. gr. about 1.090. 
Dose, 1 to 5 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The external and internal action of sassafras is, as far as is 
known, the same as that of volatile oils generally. The mucilage 
is somewhat stimulant in its action and an excellent vehicle. 

CHELIDONIUM. 

CELANDINE. — The plant Chelidonium majus (Nat. Ord. Papavera- 
cece). Europe. 

Characters. — Root, several-headed, branching, red-brown ; stem about 
20 in. long, light-green, hairy ; leaves about 6 in. long, petiolate ; and the plant 
has an unpleasant odor and acrid taste. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

Uses. 

It has been found useful in jaundice, it was the chief in- 
gredient in the old decoctum ad ictericos of the Edinburgh 

Pharmacopoeia. 

CALENDULA. 

MARIGOLD. — The fresh, flowering part of Calendula officinalis (Nat. 
Ord. Composites). United States. 

Characters. — Well known. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is a peculiar principle, Calendtilin, 
considered to be analogous to bassorin. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Calendulae. — Calendula, 20. By maceration and per- 
colation with diluted alcohol to 1 00. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Calendula was formerly supposed to be antispasmodic, 
sudorific and emmenagogue, but now is believed to have no thera- 
peutic value. 



520 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

SCUTELLARIA. 

SCULLCAP.— The tops of Scutellaria lateriflora (Nat. Ord. Labiate). 
United States. 

Characters. — About 20 in. long, smooth; stem quadrangular, branched; 
leaves opposite, petiolate, about 2 in. long, ovate-lanceolate or ovate-oblong, 
serrate ; flower is axillary, one-sided racemes, with a pale-blue corolla, and a 
two-lipped calyx, closed in fruit, the upper lip helmet-shaped ; odor, slight ; 
taste, bitterish. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Scutellariae Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with alcohol and water, and evaporation 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Uses. 

Scutellaria has little medicinal effect. It is used as a nervous 

sedative. 

DULCAMARA. 

BITTER SWEET. — The young branches of Solanum Dulcamara 
(Nat. Ord. Solanacece). North America. 

Characters. — About % in. thick, cylindrical, somewhat angular, usually 
hollow in the centre. The thick bark is externally pale-greenish, marked with 
alternate leaf-scars, and internally green ; odor slight, taste bitter, afterwards 

swfeet. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Dulcamarae Fluidum. — By maceration and percola- 
tion with diluted alcohol and evaporation. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Dulcamara possesses feeble narcotic properties, with the power 
of increasing the secretions. It has been employed chiefly for 
cutaneous eruptions, particularly of a scaly character. 

THUJA. 

ARBOR VITiE. — The fresh tops of Thuja occidentals (Nat. Ord. 
Conifer oS). Canada. 

Characters — Twigs flattish, two-edged, the scale-like leaves appressed, 
and closely imbricate in four rows, rhombic- ovate, obtusely pointed, with a 
roundish gland upon the back ; of a balsamic, somewhat terebinthinate odor, 
and a pungently aromatic, camphorous and bitter taste. 

Composition. — (1) Thujin ; symbol, C H H 12 % (2) Pinnatannic acid. 

Dose, Y X to 1 dr. 



viburnum, pipsissewa. 52i 

Uses. 

In the form of a decoction it has been used in intermittent 
fever, and for chronic rheumatism. The strong tincture (not 
officinal) has been applied to warts. 

VIBURNUM. 

VIBURNUM. Synonym. — Black Haw. The bark of Viburnum pru- 
nifolium (Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacecs). Middle and Southern United States. 

Characters. — In thin pieces or quills, glossy, purplish-brown, with 
scattered warts, and minute black dots ; when collected from old wood, gray- 
ish-brown ; the thin, corky layer easily removed from the green layer ; inner 
surface whitish, smooth; fracture, short; inodorous, somewhat astringent and 
bitter. 

Composition. — Its chief constituents are — (1) Brown resin. (2) Neutral 
principles, viburnin. (3) Valerianic acid. (4) Tannic acid. (5) Oxalic acid. 
(6) Citric acid. (7) Malic acid. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Viburni Fluidum. — By maceration and percolation 
with alcohol and water, and evaporation. 
Dose X to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Viburnum is supposed to be nervine, antispasmodic, astringent, 
diuretic and tonic. It is especially used in the nervous diseases 
of pregnancy and to prevent miscarriage. It has considerable 
reputation as a remedy for spasmodic dysmenorrhoea. 

CHIMAPHILA. 

PIPSISSEWA.— The leaves of Chimaphila umbellata (Nat. Ord. Eii- 
cacece). United States. 

Characters. — About 2 in. long, oblanceolate, sharply serrate above, 
wedge-shaped and nearly entire toward the base ; coriaceous, smooth, and 
dark-green on the upper surface. It is nearly inodorous, and has an astringent 
and bitterish taste. 

Preparation. 

Extractum Chimaphilae Fluidum. — By maceration and perco- 
lation with glycerin and water, and evaporation. 
Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 



522 organic materia medica. 

Action and Uses. 
This plant is diuretic, tonic and astringent. It is used for 
scrofula, rheumatism and nephritic affections. 

Section II.— PHARMACOPCEIAL SUBSTANCES DERIVED FROM 
THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. 

MOSCHUS. 

MUSK. — Musk. The dried secretion from the preputial follicles of 
Moschus moschiferus, the musk deer (Nat. Ord. Ruminantia). Central Asia. 

Characters. — In irregular, unctuous, dark reddish-brown or reddish-black 
grains. Odor strong, peculiar, diffusible, penetrating, persistent. The musk sac 
which is situated between the navel and the genitals, but nearer the latter, under 
the skin and lying on the muscles of the abdomen, occurs in commerce as a 
roundish oval sac, 1 1 / 2 to 2 m - m diameter, nearly smooth on one side, and 
covered on the other or outer side by brownish-yellow or grayish appressed, 
bristle-like hairs, concentrically arranged around a nearly central orifice. It 
contains the grains of musk. Its orifice is just in front of the penis. 

Compositon. — This is not known. The odorous principle is probably a 
product of decomposition constantly being formed ; a complete drying destroys 
the odor, but it returns after water is added. Musk also contains fats, oils, 
salts, &c. 

Impurities. — On account of the very high price of musk the sac is often 
partly filled with dried blood and all sorts of impurities, and it is then sewn 
up again. 

Dose, 5 to 10 gr. as a pill, or suspended-with acacia. 

Preparation. 

Tinctura Moschi. — Musk, 10; alcohol, 45; by maceration and 
filtration to 100. 

Dose, J( to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. % 

Musk is a very powerful diffusible stimulant, especially to 
the heart and nervous system. How it acts is not known. It also 
stimulates the respiratory centre. Occasionally it produces head- 
ache and nausea. 

Therapeutics. 

It has been used, and apparently with great success, in the 
collapse and prostration of long-continued severe diseases, such 



SUET, SUGAR OF MILK, OX GALL. 523 

as typhoid fever and pneumonia. Various functional nervous dis- 
eases, as hysteria are occasionally treated with it. Its high price 
limits its use. It is usually given as a pill. 

SEVUM. 

SUET. — The internal fat of the abdomen of the sheep, Ovis aries (Nat. 
Ord. Ruminantid) , purified by melting and straing. 

Suet is contained in Unguentum Hydrargyri, and Unguentum Picis 

Liquidae. 

SACCHARUM LACTIS. 

SUGAR OF MILK.— C 12 H 22 O n ,H 2 0. A peculiar crystalline sugar 
obtained from the whey of cow's milk by evaporation, and purified by re-crys- 
tallization. 

Characters. — White, hard masses, yielding a white powder, feeling 
gritty on the tongue, odorless, having a faintly sweetish taste, and a neutral 
reaction. Soluble in 7 parts of water, insoluble in alcohol, ether, or chloro- 
form. 

Sugar of milk is used in Abstracts and Triturations, in Pulvis Ipecacuanhas 
et Opii and Trituratio Elaterini. It is employed to sweeten infant's food. 

FEL BOVIS. 

OX GALL. — The fresh gall of Bos Taurus (Ord. Ruminantid). 

Characters. — A brownish-green or dark-green, somewhat viscid liquid, 
having a peculiar odor, a disagreeable, bitter taste, and a neutral or faintly 
alkaline reaction. Sp. gr. 1.018 to 1.028. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Preparations. 

1. Fel Bovis Inspissatum. — Fresh ox gall, 100; by evaporation 
and stirring to 15. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

2. Fel Bovis Purificatum. — Purified ox gall. 

Source. — Evaporate ox gall to one quarter its bulk. Shake with 
alcohol ; remove the mucus which separates on standing. Evaporate 
what remains to the consistence of an extract. 

Characters — Yellowish-green. Soluble in water and in alcohol. 
Taste characteristically bitter. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Ox gall has been used as a cholagogue purgative in cases of 
constipation, in which the pale color of the faeces indicates a defi- 



524 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

cient secretion of bile. An enema of twenty grains or more of it 
dissolved in an ounce or two of water is very useful in case of im- 
pacted faeces, in which the rectum is so full that there is not suffi- 
cient room for a larger enema. 

ICHTHYOCOLLA. 

ISINGLASS. — The swimming-bladder of Acipenser Huso, and of other 
species of Acipenser (Class Pisces ; Ord. Sturiones). 

Characters. — In separate sheets, of a horny or pearly appearance ; 
whitish or yellowish ; inodorous ; insipid. 

Preparation. 

Emplastrum Ichthyocollse. Synony?n. — Court plaster. Isinglass, 
10; alcohol, 40; glycerin, I; water and tincture of benzoin. To be 
applied with a brush upon taffeta. 

PEPSINUM SACCHARATUM. 

SACCHARATED PEPSIN. 

Source. — The stomach of a pig recently killed is opened carefully, 
washed with cold water, and is then fastened on a board with the mucous sur- 
face uppermost. This is scraped, and the scrapings are dried on a glass slab 
at a temperature not exceeding ioo° F. The dried residue is mixed with 
powdered sugar of milk. 

Characters. — A lightish yellow-brown powder. Odor faint. Taste 
slightly saline. It is not completely soluble in water. I part of pepsin dis- 
solved in 500 parts of water with 7.5 parts of hydrochloric acid added, should 
digest at least 50 of bard-boiled egg albumen (broken up by being passed 
through a fine sieve) in five or six hours at a temperature of ioo° to 104 F. 

Dose, 5 to 60 gr. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Pepsini. Synonym. — Liquid Pepsin. Saccharated pepsin, 
40; hydrochloric acid, 12; glycerin, 400; water to 1000. 
Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Pepsin may be given to help gastric digestion in those in 
whom from old age or long illness the secretion of gastric juice is 
deficient. Thus, for example, it is useful in convalescence from 
acute illnesses or in cases of cancer of the stomach. It is of no 
use as an aid to the digestion of fatty or carbo-hydrate food. It 



LARD. 525 

should be given in a powder or a pill directly after meals, and 
should be followed in about half an hour by a dose of hydro- 
chloric acid in the proportion mentioned in the above test. The 
pepsin should be tested before use, as many preparations in the 
market are inert powders. 

Pepsin may be used to predigest albuminous food, either for ad- 
ministration by the mouth or the rectum. Often this is better 
than giving pepsin internally, for morbid processes may be going 
on in the stomach, which prevent digestion. The rectum has 
very feeble powers of digestion, and therefore nutrient enemata 
or suppositories should always be predigested. It is found that 
for predigestion pancreatin is usually a more reliable preparation 
than pepsin (q. v.). Both should be employed with judgment, 
for there is a likelihood that if artificial digestion be used too 
long, the digestive functions may atrophy from want of use. 

The following directions for peptonizing meat may be followed. 
Take one pound of lean meat, reduce to a fine pulp, add six times 
its weight of water containing 0.2 per cent, of hydrochloric acid 
and 120 grains of pepsin. Digest at 120 F. in a porcelain diges- 
ter for five or six hours with frequent stirring. Then neutralize 
with carbonate of sodium, boil and filter. Evaporate the filtrate 
on a water bath till it is of the consistency of a soft extract. 

Peptonized meat suppositories are often very valuable. To 
make one suppository 30 grains of the above extract is mixed with 
40 grains of oil of theobroma, and moulded in a conical mould. 

ADEPS. 

LARD. — Prepared Lard. The prepared internal fat of the hog, Sus 
scrofa (Nat. Ord. Pachydermata). 

Characters. — A soft, white unctuous solid, of a faint odor, free from 
rancidity, having a bland taste and a neutral reaction. Entirely soluble in 
ether, benzin, disulphide of carbon. Sp. gr. about o 938. 

Preparations. 

1. Adeps Benzoinatus. — See Benzoin p. 500. 

2. Ceratum. — White wax, 30; lard, 70. 

3. Ceratum Resinae. — See Resin p. 399. 

4. Unguentum. — Lard, 80; yellow wax, 20. 



526 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

OLEUM ADIPIS. 

LARD OIL. — A fixed oil expressed from lard at a low temperature. 
Characters. — A colorless, or pale yellowish, oily liquid, having a slightly 
fatty odor and a bland taste, sp. gr. 0.900 to 0.920. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Lard is an emollient, and is used as a basis for ointments. 
The benzoinated variety has the advantage of not quickly turning 
rancid. 

CETACEUM. 

SPERMACETI. — A peculiar concrete fatty substance, obtained, mixed 
with oil, from the head of a sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus (Nat. Ord. 
Cetacea), inhabiting the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is separated from the 
oil by filtration and pressure, and is then purified. 

Characters. — Crystalline, pearly white, glistening, translucent masses, of 
little taste or odor. Sp. gr. about 0.945. Solubility. — Not in water, but solu- 
ble in ether, chloroform, or boiling alcohol. 

Composition — It is cetylic alcohol (C 16 H 33 OH) in combination with 
palmitic acid (HC 16 H 31 2 ), forming a fat, cetin (C 16 H 33 C 16 H 31 2 ). 

Preparations. 

1. Ceratum Cetacei. — Spermaceti, 10; white wax 35; olive 
oil, 55. 

2. Ungentum Aquae Rosae. — See Almond, p. 471. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Spermaceti is used as an emollient and as a basis for oint- 
ments. 

VITELLUS. 

YOLK OF EGG. — The yolk of the egg of G a litis Bankiva, var. 
domesticus (Nat. Ord. Gallincz). 

Preparation. 
Glyceritum Vitelli. Synonym. — Glyconin. (See Glycerin, p. 467). 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Yolk of egg is emollient and is nutritive. 



COD LIVER OIL. 527 

OLEUM MORRHU^. 

COD-LIVER OIL. — The oil extracted from the fresh liver of the cod, 
Gadus Morrhua, or other species of Gadus (Nat. Ord. Teleostid), by a heat 
not exceeding 180 F. Newfoundland coast. 

Characters. — Pale yellow, with a slight fishy odor, and a bland fishy 
taste, and a faintly acid reaction. Sp. gr. 0.920 to 0.925. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Olein, which is a fluid 
fixed oil, and is oleate of glyceryl. Oleic acid is C 18 H 34 2 , glyceryl is C 3 H 5 , 
and olein is C 3 H 5 (C 18 H3 3 2 )3. It is the most abundant constituent of cod-liver 
oil. (2) Margarin. (3) Free fatty acids, as oleic, palmitic, stearic. (4) Gad- 
uin, a peculiar principle, very insoluble in ordinary menstrua. (5) Trimethyl- 
amine. (6) Traces of iodine and bromine. (7) According to some there are 
traces of bile salts. 

Dose, 1 to 4 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — Cod-liver oil is a bland unirritating oil. If it is 
desired to administer it in cases in which it is rejected by the 
stomach, it may be rubbed into the skin. The oil is certainly 
absorbed when applied in this way. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract.— Cod-liver oil, even 
more than other oils is liable to cause indigestion, nausea, and 
sickness Large doses may set up diarrhoea. It is more readily 
absorbed than other oils. Loops of intestine have been isolated 
in the lower animals, and into each loop different oils have been 
injected. The intestines are returned to the abdominal cavity, 
and after some time the animal is killed and the loops are opened. 
It is always found that the cod-liver oil has been more rapidly ab- 
sorbed than any other oil. The facility with which cod-liver oil 
is absorbed is also shown by the fact that it often cannot be recog- 
nized in the faeces, although equal quantities of other oils taken 
by the mouth are passed unaltered. Some authorities believe that 
the superior absorbability of cod-liver oil depends on the biliary 
principles contained in it, but this is doubtful ; others think that 
it is because the presence of free acids facilitates saponification 
and emulsion. 

Tissues. — Not only is cod-liver oil more readily absorbed than 
other oils, but it is a better food. All oils lead to an increased 



528 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

formation of fat, but cod-liver oil is the most powerful in this re- 
spect. It reduces the color of a solution of permanganate of 
potassium more readily than other oils — that is to say, it is more 
readily oxidized. Thus, as it is more easily absorbed and more 
easily oxidized, we have a partial explanation of its peculiar value 
in increasing the weight of the body ; but the general belief is 
that these two facts do not wholly explain the action of cod-liver 
oil, and that it has some peculiar specific action not yet under- 
stood, especially upon those suffering from phthisis, for whom it is 
a very valuable drug. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — The smell of cod-liver oil is so disagreeable that 
it should not be rubbed in externally unless this treatment be 
absolutely necessary. 

Internal. — Cod liver oil is of the greatest service in all 
varieties of tuberculous disease, the contra-indications being high 
temperature, severe haemoptysis and dyspepsia, vomiting, or 
diarrhoea, whether primary or induced by the oil. Patients com- 
monly improve in every way under its influence. With the same 
exceptions it may be administered with great advantage in rickets, 
and in any chronic disease associated with loss of flesh, such as 
suppuration, convalescence from acute disease, tertiary syphilis 
and starvation It often is of benefit in the chronic bronchitis 
and the chronic eczema of childhood. It is frequently given 
with success in neuralgia, general feebleness, despondency and 
other nervous conditions. Formerly it was often prescribed for 
chronic rheumatism. Many persons cannot, or imagine they 
cannot, take it on account of its nasty taste. There are in the 
market several preparations of cod-liver oil in which, by careful 
preparation, the disagreeable taste is almost abolished. Ten 
minims of pure ether, with a drop or two of oil of peppermint or 
cloves, will, when mixed with a dose of cod-liver oil, often ren- 
der it more palatable. Sometimes it is taken in capsules, or made 
into a jelly with isinglass, or a little salt is put into the mouth 
after the oil is taken, or the mouth is rinsed out with brandy be- 
forehand. Sometimes it is taken in coffee, but perhaps the best 



HONEY. 529 

way is to form an emulsion of it. A very nutritious one is made 
by rubbing together equal parts of extract of malt and cod- 
liver oil. 

The British Pharmaceutical Conference advises the following 
emulsion: — Cod-liver oil, 8 oz.; the yolk of two eggs; tragacanth 
in powder, 16 gr.; elixir of saccharin (saccharin, 24 gr.; Sod. 
Bicarb., 12 gr.; alcohol, 1 3j Aq. Dest., 7 3)? 1 $'> tincture of 
benzoin, 1 3 \ spirit of chloroform, 43; oil of bitter almonds, 
8 TTL; distilled water to 16 g. Dose, 2 to 8 3- It is frequently 
desirable to give cod-liver oil with iron. In that case the fol- 
lowing preparation, in which the oil is emulsified with an alkali, 
will be found useful: — Cod-liver oil, 4 5; citrate of iron and 
ammonium, 5 gr.; carbonate of potassium, 3 gr.; saccharin, % 
gr.; oil of caraway, 1 TT|; water to ^j. 

MEL. 

HONEY. — A saccharine secretion deposited in the honeycomb by the 
hive bee, Apis mellifica (Nat. Ord. Hymenoptera). 

Characters. — A syrupy liquid of a light yellowish or pale brownish- 
yellow color, translucent, gradually becoming crystalline and opaque, having a 
characteristic odor, and a sweet, faintly acrid taste. 

Preparation. 

Mel Despumatum. Synonym. — Clarified honey. Melt honey 
in a water-bath, and strain while hot. 

Clarified honey is contained in Confectio Rosas and Mel Rosae. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Honey is demulcent, relieving dryness of the mouth and facil- 
itating swallowing. Oxymel, clarified honey 8, acetic acid 1, 
water 1, is a useful preparation. It is a common ingredient of 
cough mixtures. Honey is a mild laxative, and may be given to 
children for this purpose. 

CERA. 

CERA FLAVA. — Yellow Wax. Prepared from the honeycomb of the 
hive bee, Apis mellifica (Nat. Ord. Hymenoptera), 

45 



53° ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Characteristics. — Firm, yellowish. Odor honey-like. Not unctuous. 
Soluble in oil of turpentine, not in alcohol. 

Composition. — It consists of melissic alcohol (C 30 H 61 OH) united with 
cerotic acid (C, f H 53 COOH). 

// is used in Ceratum resinae, (compound cerates), unguentum. 

CERA ALBA. — White wax. Made by bleaching yellow wax by ex- 
posure to moisture, air and light. 

Characters. — A yellowish- white solid, having a slightly rancid odor, 
and an aromatic taste. Sp. gr. 0.965 to 0.975. 

Uses. 

Yellow and white wax are only used as bases for many plas- 
ters and ointments, and for Charta Cantharidis. 

COCCUS. 

COCHINEAL.— The dried female insect Coccus cacti (Nat. Ord. Hem- 
iptera). Reared in Mexico and Teneriffe on Opuntia cochinillifera y and on 
other species of Opuntia. 

Characters. — Oval, flat or concave beneath, convex above, about i in. 
long, transversely wrinkled, purplish black or purplish gray, easily pulverized, 
the powder being dark red or puce-colored. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is carminic acid. Sulphuric acid 
and several other reagents precipitate from the decoction the well-known col- 
oring matter carmine. 

Cochineal is contained in the compound tincture of cardamom. 

Uses. 
Cochineal is only used as a coloring agent. 

CANTHARIS. 

CANTHARIDES. — The beetle Cantharis vesicatoria. Synonym. — 
Spanish flies. (Nat. Ord. Co/eoptera), dried. Collected chiefly in Hungary. 

Characters. — %{ to 1 in. long, ^ in. broad, with two long elytra or 
wing-sheaths of a shining coppery-green color, under which are two thin, 
brownish, transparent, membranous wings. Powder grayish-brown, containing 
shining, green particles. Odor strong, disagreeable. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Cantharidin, the active 
principle, a fatty crystal lizable body forming shining colorless plates, soluble in 
alcohol, ether, acetic ether, glacial acetic acid, chloroform, and oils. It is 



CANTHARIDES. 53 1 

found especially in the generative apparatus, the eggs, and the blood. (2) A 
volatile oil, giving the odor and said to have the same action as cantharidin. 
(3) A green oil, the coloring principle, closely allied to chlorophyll. 

Preparations. 

1. Ceratum Cantharidis. — Cantharides, 3$; yellow wax, 20; 
resin, 20; lard, 25. 

2. Ceratum Extracti Cantharidis. — Cantharides, 30; resin, 15; 
yellow wax, 35 ; lard, 35 ; alcohol in sufficient quantity. Cantharides, 
by percolation with alcohol, evaporation and mixture. 

3. Charta Cantharidis. — Cantharides, 1 ; white wax, 8 ; olive 
oil, 4; spermaceti, 3 ; Canada turpentine, I; water, 10. Mixed and 
spread on paper. 

4. Collodium cum Cantharide. — Cantharidal Collodion. — (See 
Flexible Collodion, p. 509). 

5. Linimentum Cantharidis. — (See Turpentine, p. 393). 

6. Tinctura Cantharidis. — Cantharides, 5 ; by percolation with 
alcohol to 100. 

Dose, 1 to 15 m. 

7. Emplastrum Picis cum Cantharide. Synonym. — Warm- 
ing plaster. (See Burgundy pitch, p. 399). 

Action. 

External. — Cantharides is a powerful irritant, but it is 
slower in its action than most. If any of its preparations are 
applied to the skin, no effect is noticed for two or three hours; 
then a tingling, burning pain is perceived. Soon the part be- 
comes red from vascular dilatation, the drug now producing its 
rubefacient effect. The next stage is the formation of several 
vesicles. These soon run together to form one large bleb full of 
clear serum. Not only is cantharides an irritant and vesicant, 
but it is a powerful counter-irritant, probably dilating by re- 
flex action the vessels of the deep-seated organs under the point 
of application. 

Cantharidin can be absorbed by the skin in sufficient quantity 
to produce internal effects. 



532 ORGANIC MATERIA MEDICA. 

Internal. — Cantharides is hardly used internally in medi- 
cine, as it is such a powerfal irritant. 

Gastro-intestinal tract. — It produces severe gastrointes- 
tinal irritation, the patient suffering from abdominal pain, 
diarrhoea and vomiting. There may be a burning pain in the 
throat; the motions and vomited matters may contain blood. 
These symptoms naturally cause much general depression. 

Genito -urinary tract. — The active principle is absorbed into 
the blood, and a kw hours after the gastro-intestinal symptoms 
have set in the patient complains of great pain in the loins and 
strangury — that is to say, there is an urgent desire to micturate ; 
the effort is very painful from vesical tenesmus, and the quantity 
of urine passed is very small ; it may contain albumen and 
blood. In severe cases of poisoning there may be greatly in- 
creased sexual desire, numerous seminal emissions, violent pria- 
pism, with swelling and heat of the genital organs. In women 
cantharides may cause abortion or induce menstruation. Post 
mortem. — Intense gastro-intestinal inflammation is present, 
consequently swelling, ecchymoses, and hyperaemia of the mucous 
membrane of the alimentary canal are observed. The kidneys 
are found to be very congested and in the early stage of 
acute nephritis. There is also much inflammation of the genito- 
urinary mucous membrane. 

Therapeutics. 

External. — Cantharides is very largely employed to raise a 
blister, and it is of all drugs the most commonly used counter- 
irritant. It is applied to the chest in pleurisy, over the pericar- 
dium in pericarditis, over the inflamed nerves in neuritis, over 
the mastoid process in disease of the ear, over joints with chronic 
effusion into them, over the stomach when there is gastric pain, 
vomiting, &c. A blister applied over the nerve will often relieve 
pain in neuralgia. It will be noticed that the collodion and the 
emplastrum are the strongest preparations, that the unguentum 
is strong, but the remaining preparations are weak. If a further 
counter-irritant effect is desired, the blister, which is usually 



CANTHARIDES. 533 

pricked, may be irritated by the application of any irritating 
ointment; Unguentum Sabinae, (B. P., fresh savine tops, 8; 
yellow wax, 3; benzoinated lard, 16;) was formerly much used 
for this purpose. If the irritation produced by the canthar- 
ides itself is sufficient, a dressing of some simple ointment should 
be applied when vesication is complete. The cantharides prep- 
aration should not be left on after the development of the bleb, 
lest the cantharidin should be absorbed. Cantharides should not 
be applied to a part on which the patient lies, or a bedsore may 
form; nor must it be used in renal disease; and it should be care- 
fully employed in children or debilitated persons. It ought not 
to be applied to paralyzed limbs. 

Internal. — The drug is rarely given internally, but it has 
been used with success in small doses in cases of chronic gleet. 
Sometimes, but not often, it relieves chordee. 



APPENDIX, No. I. 

NON-PHARMACOPCEIAL REMEDIES. 

The following remedies are official in the British Pharmacopoeia. 

ACETANILIDE. 

ACETANILIDUM, B. P. Symbol.— C 6 H 6 .NH.C 2 H 8 0. 

Synonyms. — Antifebrin, — Phenylacetamide. 

Source. — Glacial acetic acid and aniline are heated together. C 6 H 5 N 
H 2 +HC 2 H 3 2 =C 6 H 5 NHC 2 H 3 0- r -H 2 0. Acetanilide is distilled over and 
purified by crystallization. 

Characters. — Colorless, scaly crystals, of a peculiar greasy feel and a 
pungent taste. Solubility, I in 194 of cold water, I in 50 of hot, I in 3^ of 
alcohol. Freely soluble in ether and chloroform. It melts at 235 F., forming 
a clear colorless liquid. 

Dose, 4 to 15 gr. in tablets, cachets, or suspended. 

Action and Uses. 

Acetanilide was introduced as an antipyretic but is used chiefly 
as an analgesic in neuralgic and rheumatic affections. It has been 
classed among the dangerous remedies, although some of the un- 
toward results may have been due to impurities. Although it has 
been employed internally as an antiseptic it can not be recom- 
mended. See also Phenacetine p. 554. 

Under the name of Antikamnia a substance has been intro- 
duced which is probably a mixture of 20 parts of bicarbonate of 
sodium, 70 of acetanilide and 10 of caffeine. Since acetanilide 
is a cardiac depressant, the addition of caffeine may be advanta- 
geous in some cases. 

ACIDUM MECONICUM. 

MECONIC ACID.— Symbol, H 3 C 7 H0 7 . 

Source. — The meconate of calcium, which is precipitated in the manufac- 
ture of hydrochlorate of morphine, is placed in hot water and treated with 
hydrochloric acid. On cooling, meconic acid crystallizes out. 

534 



APPENDIX. 535 

Characters. — Almost colorless, micaceous crystals. Solubility, i in 150 
of water, 1 in 45 of alcohol ; it is decomposed by boiling water. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Liquor Morphinae Bimeconatis. — Morphine is precipitated 
by ammonia from a solution of the hydrochlorate. It is dissolved in 
water, alcohol and meconic acid. Strength, I in 80. 
Dose, 5 to 40 m. 

ACONITINA. 

ACONITINE.— C^H^NO^. [?] 

Source. — It is precipitated from an aqueous solution of an alcoholic 
extract of the powdered root by ammonia, and then purified. 

Characters. — A white, amorphous or crystalline alkaloid. Causes 
tingling and numbness of the skin. An intense poison. Solubility. — I in 2600 
of cold water, I in 40 of alcohol or ether, 1 in 1 of chloroform. Must be given 
internally with great caution. It is very difficult to obtain pure, and com- 
mercial preparations vary very much. Potash splits it up into benzoic acid, and 
aconine. Non-officinal species of aconitum yield different kinds of aconitine. 

Dose, 2^0 & T -> w * tn caut i° n - 

Preparation, B % P. 
Unguentum Aconitinae. — Strength, 8 grains in I ounce. 

ADEPS LANiE. 

WOOL FAT. — The purified cholesterin fat obtained as a bye-product 
in the dressing of sheep's wool. 

Source. — Sheep's wool, washed in cold water, then subjected to heat and 
pressure, yields a free wool fat. This is purified by melting, washing with an 
alkali, and then washed with an acid while it is heated. 

Characters. — Semi-transparent, pale yellow, tenacious body. Ignited, it 
burns with a sooty flame. Melts between ioo° and 112 F. ; odor like sheep's 
wool. Solubility. — Freely in chloroform and in ether, partially in alcohol. 
Insoluble in water, but on vigorous shaking takes up 1% times its own weight. 

ADEPS LANiE HYDROSUS. 

HYDROUS WOOL FAT.— Synonym.— Lanoline. 

Source. — Incorporate 3 oz. of water with 7 oz. of wool fat, and melt in 
a warm mortar. 

Characters. — Of a very pale-yellow, softer than wool fat. On heating 
it gives up its water. Glycerin also abstracts the water. 



53^ appendix. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Hydrous wool fat when gently rubbed in the skin is more 
quickly absorbed than most fats, hence it is a useful basis if we wish 
to administer substances — as, for example, mercury — by inunction. 

ALBUMEN. 

OVI ALBUMEN.— Egg albumen, B. P. The liquid white of egg of 
G alius Bankiva var, domesticus (Ord. Gallincs.) 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is an antidote of poisoning by corrosives and irritants, es- 
pecially bichloride of mercury, sulphate of copper, lead salts and 
nitrate of silver. It is nutritive. 

ALCOHOL AMYLICUM. 

ALCOHOL AMYLICUM. Synonym— Fusel Oil. Symbol.— C 5 H n 
HO. 

Source. — Separated during the rectification of crude spirit and redistilled 
at from 25 3 to 260 F. 

Characters. — A colorless, very inflammable, oily liquid, with a peculiar 
odor. Sp. gr. 0.818. Used to make nitrite of amyl and valerianate of sodium. 

Uses. 

Fusel oil is a poison and is not used in medicine. The man- 
facturers of cinchona alkaloids use it as a solvent ; formerly it was 
wanted for the preparation of valerianic acid. 

ALOIN. 

ALOIN. Symbol. — C 16 H 18 7 . — A crystalline, neutral principle, ex- 
tracted from aloes by solvents and recrystallization. 

Characters. — Tufts of yellow, acicular crystals. Solubility. — Freely in 
hot fluids, sparingly in cold water or cold alcohol, not at all in ether. Rapidly 
altered by alkalies. The specimens of aloin are named according to the 
variety of aloes from which they are derived ; thus we have barbaloin, socoa- 
loin, nataloin (Natal), and zanaloin (Zanzibar). They differ very slightly from 
each other. They are isomeric, and their action is the same. Aloin is the 
active principle in aloes, but it does not gripe so much. 

Dose, ^ to 2 gr. 



APPENDIX. 537 

ANETHUM. 

DILL. — The dried fruit of Peucedanum graveolens (Nat. Ord., 
Umbelliferce). Middle and Southern Europe. 

Characters. — Broadly oval, ^ in. long, brown, flat, with a pale, broad, 
membranous border. Mericarps distinct, odor and taste agreeable and aromatic. 
Resembling dill, conium, anise, fennel, caraway; but dill is winged. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is the officinal volatile oil (q. v.). 

Preparation, B. P. 

Aqua Anethi — Dill fruit I, water 10. 
Dose, i to 2 fl. oz. 

OLEUM ANETHI.— The oil distilled in Britain from the dill fruit. 
Characters. — Pale yellow, odor pungent, taste hot and sweetish. 
Composition. — The chief constituents are (i) Anethum, a terpene, (2) 
the oxidized oil identical with caruol. (See page 424.) 
Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The same as those of anise and caraway. Dill water is a 

common carminative for children, and it covers very well the 

taste of sodium salts. 

ANTIPYRIN. 

PHENAZONUM, B. P. Synonym.— Phenyl— dimethyl— pyrazolone. 
Symbol.— C 6 H 5 (CH 3 ) 2 C 3 HN 2 0. 

Source. — Aceto-acetic ether is acted upon by phenyl-hydrazine, when 
phenyl-monomethyl-pyrazo'one, ethyl alcohol, and water are formed. CH 3 
COCH 2 COOC 2 H 5 + H 2 NNHC 6 H 5 =C 6 H 5 (CH 3 )C 3 H 2 N 2 0+C 2 H 5 OH+ H 2 C 
The monomethyl compound is treated with methyl iodide and methyl alcohol. 
C 6 H 5 (CH 3 )C 3 H 2 N 2 0+CH3l=C 6 H 5 (CH 3 ) 2 C 3 HN 2 0-[-HL 

Characters. — Colorless, odorless, scaly crystals of a somewhat bitter 
taste, freely soluble in water, alcohol and chloroform. 

Incompatibles. — Sulphate, iodide, chloride of iron ; sulphate of copper ; 
iodine ; iodide of arsenic; carbolic, hydrocyanic, and nitric acids ; permanganate 
of potassium ; salicylates ; perchloride of mercury ; spirits of nitrous ether ; all 
preparations of tannin give a white precipitate ; calomel decomposes it. 

Dose, 3 to 20 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Antipyrin is given internally as a powerful antipyretic. It is also 
used as a haemostatic in haemorrhoids and epistaxis. It has been 
46 



53^ APPENDIX. 

used with some success in diabetes. It is largely employed as an 
anti-neuralgic and anti-rheumatic. Externally it is supposed to 
be an antiseptic, but local irritation has followed its hypodermic 
use, see also Phenacetine p. 553. 

Salipyrin is prepared by the action of antipyrin upon salicylic 
acid in substance. It is a white, coarsely-crystalline powder with 
a rather sweetish taste, readily soluble in alcohol, but slightly in 
water. The dose is twice that of antipyrin. In chronic articular 
rheumatism and rheumatic sciatica it has been successful, but it 
does not prevent relapses. 

lodopyrln, or iodontipyrin, is supposed to have a hydrogen 
atom in the phenyl group of antipyrin replaced by iodine. It is 
found in colorless, prismatic needles, which are tasteless. It is, 
with difficulty, soluble in cold water or alcohol but readily when 
hot. It causes a fall of temperature and perspiration but without 
collapse or shivering. It is doubtful if it has any advantage over 
antipyrin. The dose is from 8 to 24 grains. 

ARMORICA. 

HORSE RADISH.— The fresh root of the Cochlearia Armorica (Nat. 
Ord. Cruciferce). Cultivated in United States. It is most active in the autumn 
and early spring, before the leaves have appeared. 

Characters. — A long, cylindrical, fleshy root, enlarged at the upper end, 
where it is marked by the scars of fallen leaves, ]/ 2 to I inch in diameter, and 
usually a foot or more long. Pale yellowish or brownish-white externally ; 
whitish and fleshy within. Taste very pungent. Inodorous unless bruised or 
scraped. Resembling horseradish root. — Aconite root, which is shorter, conical, 
not cylindrical, darker, and causes tingling and numbness when chewed. 

Composition. — The chief constituent is a substance, which by the action 
of a ferment, yields a volatile oil identical with that of mustard. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Spiritus Armoricae Compositus. — Scraped horseradish root, 
20 oz. ; bitter orange peel, 20 oz. ; nutmeg, y^ oz. ; alcohol, I gal. ; 
water, 3 pints. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 
Horseradish is a condiment, having the same action as mustard. 



APPENDIX. 539 

It has been used as a counter-irritant. The spirit is a pleasant 
flavoring and carminative agent. 

BARIUM. (Not officinal.) 

BARIUM. — Symbol, Ba. Combining weight, 137. Barii Chloridum, — 
Chloride of Barium, BaCl 2 2H 2 0. 

Characters. — Colorless, translucent tables. 
Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. 

Action. 

It causes the cardiac contractions to become slower and more 
forcible, acting like digitalis. The blood-vessels are constricted, 
and the blood-pressure rises. The plain muscular fibres of the 
intestine may be excited, and the peristalsis is increased. In 
these respects it resembles ergot as well as digitalis. It acts like 
veratrine when applied locally to voluntary muscles, prolonging 
the contraction \ but this effect is done away with by the applica- 
tion of potassium salts. 

Therapeutics. 

It is not often given, but it has been used for mitral insufficiency 
accompanied by irregularity of the heart, for haemorrhage, and 
as a stimulant in atony of the bladder or intestine. Formerly it 
was given in nervous diseases. 

Toxicology. 

Poisonous doses cause salivation, thirst, vomiting, purging, 
difficulty of breathing, and, from its action on the spinal cord, 
paralysis of the limbs. The heart is arrested in systole. 

BELA. 

BAEL FRUIT.— The dried half-ripe fruit of JEgle marmelos. (Nat. 
Ord. Rutacece.) From Malabar and Coromandel. 

Character. — Roundish fruit, the size of a large orange, usually im- 
ported in fragments of the hard, woody rind, with adherent dried pulp and 
seeds. 

Composition. — Not known. 



54° APPENDIX. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Extractum Belae Liquidum. — Bsel fruit, I ; water, i t l. 
Dose, i to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The imported bael fruit is useless. In India the extract of the 
fresh fruit is used for the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery ; 
but its mode of action is unknown. 

BUTYL-CHLORAL HYDRAS. 

HYDRATE OF BUTYL-CHLORAL.— C 4 H 5 C1 3 0,H 2 0. Synonym. 
— Croton chloral hydrate. (This is a misnomer). 

Source. — Dry chlorine gas is passed through aldehyde. Butyl-chloral 
(C 4 H 5 C1 3 0) is formed. It is separated by fractional distillation, and water added. 

Characters. — Pearly-white, crystalline scales, with a nauseous taste and 
a pungent odor like chloral. Solubility, I to 50 of water, freely in alcohol and 
glycerin. 

Incompatibles. — All alkalies. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of this drug is exactly similar to that of chloral, 
but butyl-chloral hydrate is less certain in its effects. It is said 
to be less depressant to the heart, but this is doubtful. It has a 
specific action in relieving neuralgia of the fifth nerve. 

CAFFEINE CITRAS. 

CITRATE OF CAFFEINE. Symbol. — C 8 H 15 N 4 2 ,H 3 C 6 H 5 7 . 
This may not be a true chemical compound. 

Source. — Dissolve citric acid and caffeine in hot water; evaporate to 
dryness and pulverize. 

Characters. — A white, inodorous powder; is a feeble compound, easily 
splitting up. Taste and reaction acid. Solubility . — I in 32 of water, 1 in 22 of 
alcohol, I in 10 of a mixture of 2 of chloroform and I of alcohol. With 1 
in 10 of water, it forms a clear, syrupy, supersaturated solution, but directly 
the mixture is stirred the citrate of caffeine is precipitated; then, if more 
water is added, the precipitate redissolves. This peculiarity in the solubility 
of citrate of caffeine often leads to mixtures being prescribed in which the 
citrate of caffeine is precipitated, and then it can be suspended in mucilage. 

Incompatibles. — Iodide of potassium, salts of mercury and tannic acid. 



APPENDIX. 541 



CANELLA. 



CAN ELLA. — The bark of Canella alba (Nat. Ord. Canellacece) deprived 
of its corky layer and dried. From South Fiorida and the Bahamas. 

Characters. — Quills 3 to 8 in. long, or flattish pieces. Externally, 
orange, brown or buff, with sometimes remains of corky layer in gray patches ; 
whitish internally. Agreeable odor, like cloves and cinnamon ; bitter taste. 

Composition. The chief constituents are (i) a volatile oil (1 per cent.), 
consisting of several oils, one of which is identical with eugenic acid, from 
oil of cloves ; (2) a bitter principle, canellin. No tannin is present. 

Dose, 15 to 60 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Canella bark is an aromatic bitter stomachic not often pre- 
scribed. 

CASCARA SAGRADA. 

Synonyms. — Sacred Bark, Chittem Bark. The dried bark of Rhamnus 
Purshianus, California buckthorn (Nat. Ord. Rhamnacece). From the North 
Pacific coast. 

Characters. — Quills or incurved pieces. The bark is only ^ to }/% in. 
thick. Externally grayish-white, smooth, marked with lichens ; internally 
brown, nearly smooth, and striated longitudinally. Fracture short externally, 
fibrous internally. No odor. Bitter taste. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are a bitter brown resin, a yellow 
resin, a red resin, a neutral substance, various acids, and a volatile oil. 

Preparations, B. P. 

1. Extractum Cascarae Sagradae. — Alcoholic and aqueous. 
Dose, 2 to 8 gr. 

2. Extractum Cascarae Sagradae Liquidum. — Alcoholic and 
aqueous. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Cascara sagrada is a simple laxative and aperient, not 
causing much griping, and resembling in its action frangula bark, 
but it is more certain and more active. The bitter principle gives 
it stomachic properties. It is very serviceable for constipation, 
especially if chronic. A single pharmacopceial dose may either 
be taken in the even ng, or 10 to 15 Ttl of the liquid extract may 



542 APPENDIX. 

be given three times a day before meals. One advantage of its 
use is that gradually increasing doses are not required. The liquid 
extract is very bitter ; this taste may be concealed by aromatics, 
liquorice or sal volatile, and it may be given in chloroform water. 
The Brit. Pharm. Conference advises the following syrup : — Liquid 
extract of cascara sagrada, 4?; liquid extract of liquorice, 3^; 
Tinctura Carminativa, 2 5 ( see Cardamom); syrup to 1 pt. 
Strength, 12 Tit of the liquid extract to 3j- Dose, 1 to 4 g. 

COCAINE HYDROCHLORAS. 

HYDROCHLORATE OF COCAINE. Symbol.— C 17 H 21 N0 4 ,HC1. 

Source — Agitate with ether, an aqueous solution of an acidulated alcoholic 
extract, made alkaline with carbonate of sodium ; separate and evaporate the 
ethereal liquid ; purify by repetition ; decolorize, neutralize with hydrochloric 
acid, and recrystallize. 

Characters. — Colorless, acicular crystals, or a colorless powder. Solu- 
bility. — 2 in 1 of water, 1 in 2^ of alcohol, I in 2^ of glycerin. The 
solution has a bitter taste, it produces in the mouth a slight tingling followed 
by prolonged numbness. 

Dose, ^ to 2 gr. 

For hypodermatic use, hydrochlorate of cocaine 100, salicylic acid 1.5, 
distilled water to 1000. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. by the mouth, or 1 to 5 m. subcutaneously. 

Action and Therapeutics {see p. 313). 

CUSP-ARIA. 

CUSPARIA CORTEX. — Cusparia Bark. Synonym.— Angustura 
Bark. The bark of Galipea cusparia (Nat. Ord. Rutacece). From tropical 
South America. 

Characters. — Flat or curved pieces or quills, 6 inches or less long, 
l /(y inch thick, obliquely cut on inner edge. Externally a yellowish-gray, 
mottled, corky layer, which can be scraped off, and shows a dark brown 
resinous layer ; inner surface light brown, flaky. Fracture short, resinous, and 
showing under a lens, white points or lines. Taste bitter, aromatic. Odor 
musty, disagreeable. Resembling cusparia. — Canella Alba, but this is darker, 
and has pared edges. 

Impurity. — Bark of Strychnos nux-vo??iica (false Angustura bark) : its 
inner surface gives bright blood-red color with nitric acid, showing brucine ; 
cusparia does not. 



APPENDIX. 543 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) Cusparine, or angusturine, 
a crystalline bitter alkaloid. (2) An alkaloid, galipeine. (3) An aromatic 
oil. It is stated that no tannin is present, but iron salts are incompatible wilh 
cusparia. 

Incompatibles. — Mineral acids and metallic salts. 

Dose, 10 to 40 gr. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Infusum Cuspariae. — 1 in 20 of water at 120 F. (to avoid ex- 
traction of nauseous principles). 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl.'oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Cusparia bark is an aromatic bitter, having a similar action to 
calumba. It is used to make Angustura Bitters. In South Amer- 
ica it is given as an antiperiodic. 

ELEMI. 

MANILA ELEMI. — A concrete resinous exudation probably from 
Canarium commune. (Nat. Ord. Burseracece.) From Manila. 

Characters. — A soft unctuous mass, becoming harder and yellowish by 
age. Strong fennel-like odor. Resembling Elemi. — Asafcetida, Galbanum, 
Ammoniacum, but Elemi is known by its smell. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Resinous bodies, 80 per 

cent. (2) A terpene. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Unguenti Elemi.— Elemi, 1 ; simple ointment, 4. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Elemi acts like oleo-resins generally, but is only used as a 
stimulant and disinfectant ointment. 

EUCALYPTUS. 

EUCALYPTUS GUM. Synonym. — Red Gum. A ruby-colored exu- 
dation from the bark of Eucalyptus Rostrata (Nat. Ord. Myrtacece) and from 
other species. Australia. 

Characters. — An inspissated secretion forming semi-translucent and 
garnet-colored granules. Tough and difficult to powder. Adheres to the teeth 
when chewed. Soluble in water. Resembling Eucalyptus Gum. — Kino, 
which is darker and feebly soluble in water. 



544 APPENDIX. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (i) Kino-tannic arid, (2) 
Catechin, (3) Pyrocatechin. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. in a powder, or in an aqueous solution or made into a 
pill with mucilage of acacia. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Red gum is, in virtue of its tannic acid, powerfully astringent 
and is used in diarrhoea and dysentery. Lozenges, 1 grain in each, 
with fruit paste, or a decoction of 1 in 40, as a gargle, are em- 
ployed for relaxed throats. This decoction may also be given 
in 2 to 4 Z doses for diarrhoea. A fluid extract (red gum, 7 ; 
water, 21 ; alcohol, 1; dose, ^ to 1 fl. dr.) is a useful prepara- 
tion. Injected into the nose it stops epistaxis. Mixed with 1 to 
10 of water it may be injected into the rectum or vagina, or may be 
used as a mouth wash. Suppositories, each containing 5 gr. of red 
gum, are prepared, and may be employed for piles. 

FARINA. 

FARINA TRITICI. — Wheaten Flour. The grain of wheat, Triticum 
sativum (Nat. Ord., Graminacece), ground and sifted. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (1) starch, (2) gluten, (3) 
sugar ; (4) mucilage, (5) salt, (6) water. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Flour is used in the form of Mica Panis (bread crumb) as a 
basis for pills, and in the making of cataplasmata. 

FERRUM. 

FERRI ARSENIAS. — Arseniate of iron. It consists of both ferrous 
and ferric arseniates, with some oxides. 

Source. — Mix hot solutions of arseniate of sodium and sulphate of iron, 
add bicarbonate of sodium to neutralize the free sulphuric acid that is formed. 
Arseniate of iron is precipitated. 

Characters. — A greenish, amorphous powder, insoluble in water. 

Impurities. — Sulphates. 

Dose, y 1 ^ to y z gr., as a pill. 

Uses. 

The arseniate of iron is used when a combination of these 
metals fs required. 



APPENDIX. 545 

GELATINUM. 

GELATINE. — The air-dried product of the action of boiling water 
on gelatine tissue, as skin, tendons, ligaments, etc. 

Characters. — The translucent sheets or shreds. The solution in hot water 
is colorless and inodorous ; it solidifies to a jelly on cooling. It is insoluble 
in alcohol or ether. Its aqueous solution is precipitated by tannin. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is useful as a basis for suppositories, pessaries, bougies, cap- 
sules, lozenges, and as a coating for pills. 

HEMIDESMUS. 

HEMIDESMUS. — The dried root of Hemidesmus indicus (Nat. Ord. 
Asclepiadacece). Synonym. — Indian sarsaparilla. India. 

Characters. — Cylindrical, twisted, longitudinally, furrowed ; six inches 
long, their yellowish-brown corky layer easily separable from the rest of the 
bark, which is annularly cracked. Odor fragrant, taste sweetish. Resembling 
hemidesmus. Sarsaparilla, ipecacuanha, senega, but they have no cracks. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (i) coumarin, (2) tannin (3) 

hemidesmic acid. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Syrupus Hemidesmi. — I in 10. 
Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is used chiefly in India, and for the same purposes as sarsa- 
parilla. 

HIRUDO. 

THE LEECH. — Two species are officinal, (1) Sanguisuga medicinalis, 
the speckled leech (belly greenish-yellow, spotted with black) ; (2) Sanguisuga 
officinalis, the green leech (belly olive-green, not spotted). (Nat. Ord. Anne- 
lida?) 

Characters of both species. — Body, soft, smooth, 2 or more inches 
long, tapering to each end, plano-convex, wrinkled transversely, back olive- 
green, with six rusty-red longitudinal stripes. Each leech has a muscular disc 
at each end. In the center of the anterior one is a triradiate mouth, provided 
with three saws and two rows of teeth. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Leeches are used to remove blood. They are usually applied 
over deep-seated organs when they are congested, and great 



546 APPENDIX. 

relief is often afforded. For example, three or four leeches near the 
liver, when that organ is enlarged in heart disease, or one or two 
behind the ear, when the tympanic cavity is inflamed, frequently 
do good. The leech being applied to the skin, the animal fixes 
itself by its sucker-like disc, makes a triradiate cut with its mouth, 
aud draws into its body, which consequently becomes swollen, 
about a drachm and a half of blood. If this is not sufficient, a 
hot fomentation put on, after the animal is removed, may in- 
crease the quantity to half a fluid ounce. The skin should be 
well washed with a little milk before the leech is applied. Oc- 
casionally the haemorrhage requires pressure, or some local styptic, 
as perchloride of iron, or better styptic collodion, to stop it. 
If leeches have to be applied to the mouth, rectum, or uterus, 
leech glasses, which only allow the head to protrude, should be 

used. 

HOMATROPINE HYDROBROMAS. 

HYDROBROMATE OF HOM ATROPINE. — Symbol, C 16 H 21 
N0 3 HBr. The hydrobromate is an alkaloid prepared from tropine. Homa- 
tropine is really oxytoluyl-tropine. 

Source. — (i) Tropine (C 8 H 15 NO), a derivative of atropine is heated with 
oxytoluic acid in the presence of hydrochloric acid ; (2) ammonia is added, 
and pure homatropine shaken out with chloroform; (3) the chloroformic 
solution is evaporated; (4) the homatropine is neutralized with hydrobromic 
acid. 

Characters. — Small prismatic white crystals. Solubility. — I in 10 of 
water, 1 in 133 of alcohol. 

Dose, T ^Q to 2V S T - subcutaneously. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Homatropine has an action exactly similar, so far as we know, 
to that of atropine. It is only used to dilate the pupil in oph- 
thalmic practice, the advantage over atropine being, that the 
dilatation produced by homatropine passes off in a quarter of the 
time. It maybe applied as a solution (4 gr. of the hydrobromate 
to §j, of distilled water). To dilate the pupil -^q-q of a grain is 
sufficient. Sometimes a solution in castor oil is used, for it is less 
likely to be washed out by the tears, but it may be rather irri- 
tating. 



APPENDIX. 547 

HORDEUM. 

HORDEUM DECORTICATUM.— Pearl Barley. The dried seed 
of Hordeum distichon (Nat. Ord. Graminacece) divested of its integuments. 
Britain. 

Characters. — White, rounded, with a slight longitudinal furrow. 

Composition. — As of wheat. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Decoctum Hordei. Synonym. — Barley water. I to 15. 
Dose, freely. 

Action and Therapeutics 

Barley water forms a pleasant demulcent drink, especially if 
the throat be dry and sore. 

LAUROCERASUS. 

CHERRY LAUREL.— The fresh leaves of Prunus laurocerasus (Nat. 
Ord. Rosacea). Europe. 

Characters. — Thick coriaceous, in short strong petioles, oblong or 
ovate, 5 to 7 in. long, tapering towards each end, recurved at the apex, dis- 
tantly but sharply serrated, dark-green, smooth and shining above, pale be- 
neath. Prominent midrib with, on either side of it at the base, one or two 
glandular depressions. Inodorous, except on bruising, when they emit a 
ratafia-like odor. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Laurocerasin, a gluco- 
side ; it is a compound of amygdalin and amygdalic acid. (2) Pmulsin. By 
the same changes as in the case with bitter almond {see p. 470), in the pres- 
ence of moisture or oil, prussic acid and glucose are formed. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Aqua Laurocerasi. — Made by distillation and standardized so 
that its strength is 0.1 per cent of absolute hydrocyanic acid. 
"Incompatibles. — Metallic salts. 
Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Aqua laurocerasi is not often employed ; owing to the volatiliz- 
ation of the prussic acid, its strength is not constant Its action 
is the same as that of dilute hydrocyanic acid, (see p 258). It 
is used as a flavoring agent. 



54^ APPENDIX. 

MENTHOL. 

MENTHOL. — C 10 H 20 O. A stearopten obtained by cooling the oil dis- 
tilled from the fresh herb Mentha piperita (Britain) and Mentha arvensis vars. 
piperascens et glabrata (Nat. Ord. Labiates). Japan {see p. 420). 

Characters. — In fused crystalline masses or colorless, acicular crystals, 
moist from adhering oil, odor as of peppermint. Taste of peppermint ; the 
subsequent coldness in inhalation of air is well marked. Solubility. — Very 
sparingly in water or glycerin, 5 in 1 00 of alcohol, solution neutral, 4 in I in 
chloroform, I in 4 of olive oil. 

Impurities. — Glass and sulphate of magnesia. 

Dose, yi to 2 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Menthol is chiefly employed externally, for it produces local 
anaesthesia, a feeling of coldness and numbness, and thereby al- 
leviates the pain of neuralgia, especially if it involves a superficial 
nerve. It is very efficacious in some cases. The solid menthol 
in the form of a cone, may be drawn along the skin, or an al- 
coholic solution may be painted on, or a plaster (menthol, 2 ; 
yellow wax, 1 ; resin, 7 ; spread upon rubber cloth) may be ap- 
plied, a solution made by heat with oleic acid (1 to 2.4) is an ex- 
cellent preparation. The local application often relieves itching. 
It has been applied locally to carious teeth, and has been used with 
advantage in asthma. It is readily volatilized by the addition of hot 
wajter. Solutions of it have been painted upon the throat in 
diphtheria. Its internal administration has been abandoned as 
useless. It is a pure antiseptic. Menthol should be preserved 

in closed tin boxes. 

MORUS. 

MULBERRY JUICE.— The juice of the ripe fruit of Morus nigra 
(Nat. Ord. Urticacece). Britain. 

Characters.— Well known. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Grape sugar. (2) Malic 
acid. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Syrupus Mori. — Mulberry juice, 1 pint ; sugar, 2% lbs.; alcohol* 
2^ fl. oz. 

Dose, 1 to 2 fl. dr. 



appendix. 549 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The juice of Mulberries is used as a coloring and flavoring 
agent. 

NECTANDRA. 

NECTANDRA.— Bebeeru Bark. The bark of Nectandra Rodicei, the 
greenheart tree (Nat. Ord. Laurinece). British Guiana. 

Characters. — Flat, heavy pieces, 1 to 2 feet long, 2 to 6 in. broad, ^ 
to )£ in. thick. Externally grayish -brown, internally dark cinnamon-brown, 
with longitudinal striae. Hard, brittle, coarse-grained fracture, no odor, taste 
bitter, astringent. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Beberine, officinal B. P. 
as the sulphate. (2) Tannin. 

BEBERINE SULPHAS. 

SULPHATE OF BEBERINE. Symbol.— C 36 H 42 N 2 6 . 

Source. — (1) Exhaust bebeeru bark with dilute sulphuric acid, remove 
the excess of this by the addition of lime, precipitation of sulphate of lime, and 
nitration. (2) From the fluid, precipitate beberine with ammonia. (3) Dry it, 
dissolve in alcohol. (4) Distill off the alcohol, dissolve the residue in sulphuric 
acid, purify and dry at 140 F. 

Characters. — Dark, brown, translucent scales, yellow when powdered. 
Taste strong, bitter. Solubility. — 1 in 80 of water, sparingly in alcohol. As 
prepared it is a mixture of several alkaloids, chiefly sulphates of beberine and 
nectandrine. 

Incompatibles. — Alkalies and their carbonates, bromide of potassium, 
lime water, tartaric acid, tartrates, astringents, infusions and tinctures. 

Dose, 1 to 10 gr. 

Action. 

Bebeeru bark and beberine are bitter stomachics, having pre- 
cisely the same action upon the stomach as calumba. They were 
introduced because they are slightly antipyretic and antiperiodic. 
Beberine is a feeble antiseptic. 

Therapeutics. 

These substances are seldom used, as there are many other more 
convenient bitter stomachics, and their antipyretic and antiperiodic 
action is feeble. 



55° APPENDIX. 

NITRO-GLYCERIN. 

TRINITRITE OF GLYCERIN. — Symbol, C 3 H 5 [(N0 2 )0]3. 
Synonym. — Trinitrin, Glonin. 

Source. — Glycerin is dropped into a mixture of sulphuric and nitric 
acids kept cool by ice. 

Characters. — A colorless oily liquid. Sp. gr. 1.6. Slightly soluble in 
water, easily in fats, oils, alcohol, and ether. Highly explosive. Mixed with 
silica, forms dynamite. 

Dose, 2 Jo to To & T * Never used undiluted. Is best administered in a 
I per cent, solution ot alcohol or in tablets of chocolates. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Its action is the same as that of nitrite of amyl {see p. 244), ex- 
cept that the effects of nitro-glycerin are more persistent, and as 
it is only suitable for internal administration, they are slower in 
their onset. It is largely taken by persons liable to cardiac pains 
with the object of warding off the attack. Some authors regard 
it as a nitrate of glycerine, but certainly physiologically it be- 
longs to the class of nitrities. Those who look upon it as a 
nitrate, suppose that directly it gets into the body, a nitrite is 
formed. 

OLEUM ANTHEMIDIS. 

OIL OF CHAMOMILE.— The volatile oil distilled from chamomile 
flowers. 

Characters. — Pale blue or greenish-blue, becoming yellowish-brown. 
Odor and taste like chamomile. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (1) a terpene (C 10 H l6 ), and (2) 
an oxidized portion which readily yields angelic and tiglinic acids. (3) A 
bitter principle. 

Dose, 1 to 4 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Internally, like other volatile oils, oil of chamomile is a stom- 
achic and carminative. The infusion in large doses is a simple 

emetic. 

OLEUM CADINUM. 

OIL OF CADE. Synonyms.-—" Huile de Cade," Juniper Tar Oil. An 
empyreumatic oily liquid obtained by the destructive distillation of the woody 



APPENDIX. 551 

portions of Juniperns oxycedrus (Nat. Ord. Coniferce) and other species. 
France. 

Characters. — An empyreumatic oily substance, odor smoky, tar-like, 
taste aromatic. Sp. gr. about 990. Solubility. — Freely in ether and chlor- 
oform, partly in alcohol, not in water. Mixes readily with fats and fixed oils. 

Composition. — Probably much the same as that of tar. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Oil of cade has the same action on the skin as tar, but it is 
preferable as the odor is pleasanter. The diseases treated by the 
application of it are psoriasis, chronic eczema, and pruritus. 
A usual formula, is oil of cade, 1; soft soap, 4; alcohol, 4; or 
an ointment is used made by melting with it an equal part of 
yellow wax. 

OLEUM MYRISTICiE EXPRESSUM. 

OLEUM MYRISTICiE EXPRESSUM.— A concrete oil obtained 
by expression and heat from nutmegs. 

Characters. — Orange-brown, or orange-yellow, mottled, firm consis- 
tence, odor like nutmeg. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are (1) oleate of glyceryl C 3 H 5 (C ]8 
H 33° 2 )3.(2) Butyrate of glyceryl, C 3 H 5 (C u H 7 2 ) 3. (3) Myristicate of glyceryl 
C 3 H 5 (C u H 27 2 ) 3. (4) a little volatile oil. (5) a little resin. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Used in plasters as a sweet smelling stimulant. A liniment 
of Myristica, containing one part of the oil to three of olive oil, 
is an elegant antiparasitic for mild cases of ringworm. 

OPIUM. 

TINCTURA CHLOROFORMI ET MORPHINE B. P.— A 

close imitation of chlorodyne. (A) Dissolve hydrochlorate of morphine 8 gr. 
and oil of peppermint 4 HXj in rectified spirit 1 §; add chloroform I |j and ether 
2 3 . (B) Mix liquid extract of liquorice, I § ; treacle I g ; and syrup, 3 g . Mix 
A and B and add dilute hydrocyanic acid )4 § an d increase the bulk to 8 § by 
adding syrup. 

Strength, — 10 m. contains chloroform l%m, ether ^m, morphine -£g gr. 

Dose, 5 to 10 m. 



55 2 APPENDIX. 

PAPAVER. 

RHGEADOS PETALA.— Red poppy petals. The fresh petals of 
Papaver Rhozas (Nat. Ord. Papaveracece). Britain. 

Characters. — Scarlet, with a smell of opium and a bitter taste. 

Composition. — Red coloring matter 40 per cent. This consists of papa- 
veric and rhceadic acids. It is soluble in water. The petals contain no mor- 
phine, nor have they any narcotic properties. 

Preparation, B. P, 

Syrupus Rhoeados. — I in 3^. 
Dose, 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 
Poppy petals are only used as a coloring agent. 

PARAFFINUM DURUM, B. P. 

HARD PARAFFIN. 

Source. — Obtained by distillation from shale, separation of the liquid oils 
by cooling and pressure, and purification of the solid product. 

Characters. — A semi-transparent, colorless, crystalline, inodorous, taste- 
less solid, slightly greasy to the touch. Melts at HO° to 145 F., burns with a 
bright flame. Solubility. — Freely in ether and chloroform, slightly in alcohol, 
not at all in water. It is a mixture of several of the harder members of the 

paraffin series. 

PARAFFINUM MOLLE, B. P. 

SOFT PARAFFIN. Synonym.— Vaseline. 

Source. — Usually obtained by purifying the less volatile portions of 
petroleum. 

Characters. — White or yellowish, translucent, soft and greasy, free from 
acidity, alkalinity, or any unpleasant odor or flavor. Melts at 95 ° to 103 F. 
Insoluble in water. It is not saponified by caustic alkalies. 

Uses. 

As paraffin cannot become rancid, or irritate the skin, it is a 

very good basis for many ointments; but as it is absorbed with 

difficulty, it is not a suitable vehicle for the absorption of drugs 

by the skin. 

PARALDEHYDE. 

PARALDEHYDUM, B. P. Symbol, C 6 H 12 3 . 

Source. — A product of the polymerization of aldehyde by means of various 



APPENDIX. 553 

acids or salts. For example, aldehyde may be acted on by hydrochloric acid, 
sulphuric acid, or zinc chloride; during the action the mixture becomes hot; 
on cooling to 32 F. paraldehyde crystallizes. 3C 2 H 4 0==C 6 H 12 3 . 

Characters. — A colorless liquid of ethereal odor and burning taste. It 
freezes at 50 F., boils at 250 F. Sp. gr. 0.998. Solubility. — I in 10 of 
water, freely in alcohol and ether. It should be kept preserved from light and 
air. 

Dose, X to 1 fl. dr. 

Action. 

External. — It is antiseptic. 

Internal. — Even large doses do not affect the gastrointes- 
tinal tract, heart or respiration; but enormous doses of paralde- 
hyde weaken the action of the heart, and kill by paralysis of the 
respiratory center. 

Nervous system. — It is a powerful hypnotic, without any 
unpleasant after effects. It acts quickly, and the sleep, which 
lasts several hours, is quiet, refreshing and dreamless. Paralde- 
hyde in toxic doses paralyzes the anterior cornua of the spinal 
cord ; thus it abolishes reflex action and causes paralysis. It does 
not affect nerves or muscles. 

Therapeutics. 

It is given solely as an hypnotic in the same class of cases as 
chloral, and as it does not act on the heart it may also be used 
for patients suffering from cardiac disease. It has been used 
largely in asylums to produce quiet in mania and sleep in melan- 
cholia. It may produce an erythematous rash. The great objec- 
tion to its use is its extremely nasty taste, which is best covered 
by prescribing it with syrup and tincture of orange peel in at 
least two fluid ounces of water to insure that a usual dose will be 
dissolved. It also gives an extremely offensive and persistent 
odor to the breath. 

PHENACETINE. 

PHENACETINUM, B. P. Symbol, C 10 H 13 XO 2 . Synonyms.— Para- 

acetphenetidin. C 6 H 4 OC 2 H-XHC 2 H 3 0. 

Source. — Glacial acetic acid is made to act upon paraphenetidin, a pro- 
duct of phenol. C 6 H 5 OC 2 H 5 XH 2 +HC,H 3 2 =C 6 H 4 OC 2 H 5 XHC 2 H 3 0-f-H 2 0. 

47 



554 APPENDIX. 

Characters. — Colorless scaly crystals, very sparingly (i in 1700) soluble 
in water. Soluble in 30 parts of alcohol, soluble in glycerin. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. (as an antipyretic), in cachets, capsules, or suspended. 

Action of Acetanilide, Antipyrin and Phenacetine. 

None of these has any action externally or on the gastrointes- 
tinal tract. 

Blood. — With ordinary doses of these drugs this fluid is un- 
affected, but in large doses the color is changed, from the forma- 
tion of methsemoglobin. The passage of this in the urine dis- 
colors it. Acetanilide causes the red corpuscles to break up, and 
arrests the movements of the white. We do not know for cer- 
tain whether the other two substances can produce this result. N 

Heart. — All these substances depress the heart. It is not 
known how they do this, but what little evidence there is appears 
to show that they have a directly paralyzing action on the cardiac 
muscle. This cardiac depression is much less marked with 
phenacetine than the- other two, and is perhaps less with acetan- 
ilide than antipyrin. 

Vessels — Acetanilide and antipyrin contract the smaller ves- 
sels from direct action on their muscular coat. The blood-pressure 
therefore rises. Both these substances are, owing to this prop- 
erty, local haemostatics. 

J? espir a tion.— This is not affected by ordinary doses. After 
toxic doses the force of the respiratory act progressively dimin- 
ishes. 

Kidneys. — These substances are all mild diuretics. The ex- 
cretion of urea is stated to be increased by them, but some say it 
is diminished. Large doses of any of them cause the urine to be 
dark from the passage of altered blood. Antipyrin is quickly 
excreted as such in the urine. Acetanilide is said to be excreted 
as aniline, but this requires confirmation. 

Skin. — Any of these three drugs may produce an erythema- 
tous rash, and they are occasionally mild diaphoretics. 

Temperature. — These three substances are all powerful anti- 
pyretics. They have a very slight action on the temperature of 



APPENDIX. 555 

health, but they reduce it very markedly when it is raised from 
any cause. They were all introduced into medicine for this 
property. We have already seen {see p. 61) how numerous are 
the ways in which antipyretics may act. The fall of temperature 
produced by these drugs is not due to any action on the blood or 
the circulation, and it is too marked to be entirely owing to 
their slight diaphoretic action. They all decrease heat production, 
and it is most likely that they act directly upon that part of 
the central nervous system, probably the corpora striata, which 
presides over heat production. They all to a much less extent 
increase heat dissipation. The result of these two actions is that 
the temperature falls The proof of these statements is too long 
and complicated to give here, but we may mention that it is easy 
to show both by a calorimeter, and by the decrease of the pro- 
ducts of the febrile destruction of tissue, such as urea, that these 
drugs diminish heat production. The experiments which have 
been made to show that this is due to an action on the central 
nervous system are intricate and require confirmation. 

Nervous system. — These three drugs are powerful analgesics. 
Acetanilide and antipyrin in large doses are said to produce first 
convulsions, then coma and paralysis of motor nerves and mus- 
cles; but all these statements require further experiments. 

Therapeutics of Acetanilide, Antipvrin and Phenacetine. 

Pyrexia. — These three drugs have been very largely used to 
reduce the temperature in fever. All physicians are agreed that 
when this is over 105 or 106 F. it is desirable to bring it down. 
In most cases these drugs are the best means of doing this, but as 
they all take a little time to act, if the temperature is rising ex- 
tremely rapidly it is better to reduce it by means of a cold bath. 
Opinions are divided as to whether it is beneficial to reduce 
febrile temperatures of less than 105 . Probably if the fever lasts 
only a short time it is not necessary to reduce it, and therefore it 
is not usual to treat the short specific fevers as measles and scarlet 
fever with antipyretics. But if the fever last a long time, as in 
tuberculosis or typhoid fever, many hold that it is beneficial to 



556 APPENDIX. 

give antipyretics to prevent the tissue waste entailed by the 
pyrexia. The practice is very common on the Continent, and 
fairly common in England. Some give the antipyretic if the tem- 
perature reaches 102. 2 F., but a commoner point to choose, in 
this country at least, is 103 F. Usually a single dose is given 
whenever the temperature, which is taken every two or three 
hours, reaches the point fixed. It usually falls to about 99 or 
ioo° F. soon after the administration of the drug. Phenacetine has 
the great advantage of depressing the heart very little, and rarely 
producing the alarming toxicological effects described below. 
It is, however, very insoluble, and slower and less power- 
ful in its action than the other two, but the effect lasts longer. 
Authorities differ as to whether antipyrin or acetanilide is to be 
preferred for general use. Antipyrin has the advantage of being 
soluble, but the balance of evidence is that toxicological symp- 
toms are less common after acetanilide, which, however, does not 
keep the temperature down quite so long as antipyrin. Both 
take about two hours to reduce the pyrexia to its minimum, the 
last named being rather the more rapid of the two. Antipyrin 
may be given subcutaneously, but this is not advisable, as absces- 
ses may be produced. Either may be given per rectum. 

Analgesic action. — All these drugs have the property of re- 
lieving pain. It is least marked with acetanilide, most with anti- 
pyrin ; but as phenacetine possesses it very strongly, it is, per- 
haps, on the whole, to be preferred as an analgesic, for toxic re- 
sults after it are very rare. These drugs are largely used to relieve 
the pains of neuralgia, sciatica, locomotor ataxia, migraine and 
various headaches. The dose of phenacetine for this purpose is 
5 grains every hour for three or four hours; this generally gives 
relief. Doses of 10 grains of antipyrin may be used for the same 
purpose. This drug has occasionally done good in epilepsy. 

Toxicology. 

All of these drugs occasionally produce in man, collapse, cya- 
nosis, very slow respiration, a feeble and irregular pulse, vomiting, 
profuse sweating, and profound prostration. It is not known 



APPENDIX, 557 

whether these symptoms are due to impurities in the drugs. Many 
deaths have been caused by them. It has been stated that during 
one epidemic of influenza in Vienna, seventeen persons were 
killed by antipyrin. 

Treatment. — Stimulation by alcohol and ether, subcutaneous- 
ly, and by the mouth. Strychnine subcutaneously to stimulate 
the heart. Warmth to the feet and body. 

PINUS LARIX. 

LARCH. — The bark of the Pinus Larix,th.e common larch (Nat. Ord. 
Coniferce), deprived of its outer rough portion and dried. Collected in the 
spring. Central Europe. 

Characters. — Flattish pieces or quills, external surface dark red, un- 
even ; inner, yellowish or pinkish, nearly smooth. Odor like turpentine. Taste 
astringent Resembling larch bark. — Red cinchona bark which is very bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (r) Turpentiae. (2) Tannic 
acid. (3) Larixin, or larixinic acid, a crystalline bitter principle. 

Preparation B. P. 

Tinctura Laricis. —Larch bark, I ; alcohol, 8. 
Dose, 20 to 30 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Larch bark is not often prescribed. Its action depends upon 
the oil of turpentine contained in the turpentine in it. 

PINUS SYLVESTRIS. 

OLEUM PINI SYLVESTRIS.— The oil dissolved from the fresh 
leaves of Pinus sylvestris (Nat. Ord. Coniferce). Russia. 

Characters. — Almost colorless. Odor aromatic. Taste pungent. Sp. 
gr. 0.870. 

Solubility. — 1 in 4 of alcohol. 

Composition. — The same as that of turpentine. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Vapor Olei Pini Sylvestris. — Fir- wood oil, 40 m.; rub with 20 
gr. of light carbonate of magnesia ; add water, I ^ . Put 3 j of this in half 
a pint of cold and half a pint of boiling water, in a vessel so arranged 
that air, drawn through the liquid, can be inhaled. 



55^ appendix. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of fir-wood oil is the same as that of oil of turpen- 
tine (see p. 393). But it is pleasanter to inhale. 

ROSA. 

HIPS. — Rosae Caninae Fructus. — The ripe fruit of the Dog Rose, Rosa 
Canina and other species (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). Britain. 

Characters. — About 1 in. long, oval, scarlet, shining, smooth, no odor. 
Taste sweet, sub-acid. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Malic acid. (2) Citric 
acid. (3) Tannic acid. (4) Sugar. (5) A volatile oil. 

Preparation, B. P. 
Confectio Rosae Caninae. — Hips, 1 ; sugar, 3. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
This confection is used as a basis for pills. 

SACCHARIN. 

GLUSIDUM, B. P. Symbol C 6 H 4 , CO, S0 2 NH. Synonyms.— Ben- 
zoyl -sulphonic-imide, glucusinide, gluside. - 

Source. — It is derived from toluene (C 6 H 5 , CH 3 ), a derivative of coal tar, 
by a complicated process. 

Characters. — A light, white, crystalline powder. In solution it has an 
intensely sweet taste; I of saccharin is equal to 300 of cane sugar. Solubility. 
— I in 400 of cold water ; I in 28 of boiling water ; I in 500 of chloroform ; 
1 in 30 of alcohol ; I in 48 of glycerin. It unites with alkaline hydrates and 
carbonates, evolving from the latter carbonic acid gas, and yields soluble sac- 
charin, which has lost none of its sweetness, and is very soluble in water. 

Impurities. — Commercial saccharin is not a pure or uniform product; it 
often contains less than 50 per cent, of actual saccharin. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Saccharin is an antiseptic but is not used as such It is em- 
ployed as a sweetening agent, when from any cause, as diabetes, 
sugar can not be taken. It may be given in tablets, or with car- 
bonate of sodium, to form soluble solutions. An elixir is prepared, 



APPENDIX. 559 

containing also, bicarbonate of sodium, alcohol and water. The 
strength is 3 gr. to the fl. dr., and the dose is 5 to 20 m. 

SAPO ANIMALIS. 

CURD SOAP. — Soap made with soda and a purified animal fat con- 
sisting principally of stearin. It is chiefly stearate of sodium. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Curd soap is used as a basis for plasters, liniments, pills and 

suppositories. 

SODII ETHYLAS. 

ETHYLATE OF SODIUM.— Symbol NaC 2 H 6 0. 
Source. — By solution of metallic sodium in ethylic alcohol and crystalli- 
zation. 

Characters. — A deliquescent, caustic salt in white or whitish crystals. 

Preparation. 

Liquor Sodii Ethylatis, B. P. — Sodium, I ; ethylic alcohol, 20. 
This preparation has a sp. gr. of 0.567. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Ethylate of Sodium is used locally as a mild caustic to remove 
naevi and other growths. 

SODII NITRIS. 

NITRITE OF SODIUM.— Symbol NaN0 2 . 

Source. — Made by heating nitrate of sodium with lead which becomes 
an oxide, taking oxygen from the nitrate. 

Characters. — A white, or yellowish, crystalline, deliquescent salt, very 
soluble in water. 

Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Its action is the same as that of nitrite of amyl and other nitrites. 
It is suitable for the same cases as nitroglycerin, as it is slower and 
gentler in its action than nitrite of amyl. 

SODII VALERIANS. 

VALERIANATE OF SODA.— Symbol NaC 5 H 9 2 

Source. — Make valerianic acid by distilling a mixture of amylic alcohol, 



560 APPENDIX. 

sulphuric acid, and bichromate of potassium. Saturate the distillate, which 
contains valerianic acid, with caustic soda, and evaporate. 

Characters. — White masses of a powerful valerian-like odor. Solubility. 
— Easily in both alcohol and ether. 

Dose, 1 to 5 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

The valerianate of soda has the same action and is used for 
the same purposes as the other valerianates. 

STROPHANTHUS. 

STROPHANTHUS. — The mature, ripe seeds of Strophanthus hispidus, 
var. Kombe (Nat. Ord. Apocynacece), freed from awns. Equatorial West Africa. 

Characters. — Oval acuminate, greenish-brown, covered with appressed 
silky hairs, f in. long, }/£ in. broad, base blunt, apex tapering, sides flattened, 
one side has a ridge from center to apex, dorsal surface convex. Kernel white 
and oily, consisting of a straight embryo with two thin cotyledons surrounded 
by their albumen. Odor characteristic. Taste very bitter. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Strophanthin. This is in 
all probability the same as, or very closely allied to, the active principle oua- 
baine, which has been isolated from strophanthus. It exists in all parts of the 
plant, but mostly in the seeds (8 to 10 per cent.). It is a transparent, white, 
crystalline, bitter glucoside (being split up by acids into glucose and strophan- 
thidin). Insoluble in chloroform and ether, soluble in water. Ouabaine is 
said to be less soluble than strophanthin. (2) Kombic acid. (3) Inein, an 
active principle. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Tinctura Strophanthi. — Dried strophanthus seeds, 1 ; alcohol 
and ether, 20. 

Dose, 2 to 10 m. 

Strophanthin may be given hypodermically ; dose, jl^ to fa gr. 

Action. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Gastro-intestinal tract. — Like digitalis, strophan- 
thus is liable to cause vomiting and diarrhoea, especially if 
the dose be large. In small doses its bitter action may come into 
play, and then it will aid digestion like any other bitter stom- 
achic. 



APPENDIX. 561 

Heart. — Strophanthus acts on the heart exactly like digi- 
talis, for it strengthens the force without altering the duration of 
the systole, slows the rate of the beat, and consequently prolongs 
the diastole, and makes an irregular heart, regular. In fatal cases 
of poisoning by strophanthus the heart may be arrested either in 
diastole or systole. The details of its cardiac action are the same 
as those of digitalis. 

Vessels. — It does not constrict the peripheral ves- 
sels, or at any rate very slightly; therefore, the slow rise of 
blood pressure is almost entirely due to the action of the drug on 
the heart. This is the most important difference between it and 
digitalis, which contracts the vessels powerfully and consequently 
gives a greater rise of blood-pressure. 

Kidneys. — It is diuretic, but not nearly so powerful as digi- 
talis. Probably the diuresis is entirely due to the increased 
cardiac action No special alteration in the size of the renal 
vessels takes place under strophanthus. 

Nervous system. — This is not affected. In toxic doses it is a 
direct poison to the voluntary muscles. Both strophanthin and 
ouabai'ne are powerful local anaesthetics when dropped on the 
conjunctivae. 

Respiration — No particular effect is produced The African 
Kombe arrow poison is made from strophanthus. 

Therapeutics. 

Strophanthus is used in the same varieties of cardiac disease 
as digitalis ; that is to say when it is desirable to slow the heart, 
to increase its force, to make it regular, and to prolong the dias- 
tole. It is clear, therefore, that it will be chiefly valuable in cases 
of mitral disease. A priori, it might be thought that as strophanthus 
does not contract the peripheral vessels and so increase the 
cardiac resistance, consequently it would be the more useful drug, 
but experience has not confirmed this, and in the treatment of a case 
of heart disease, digitalis should be used first; but if the patient 
does not improve on this, then strophanthus may be tried. It will 
sometimes happen that strophanthus will not produce vomiting 
48 



562 APPENDIX. 

when digitalis does, but there are many individual differences. 
Digitalis should be given whenever a diuretic effect is desired ; 
but strophanthus, as it does not constrict the peripheral vessels, is 
preferable when it is wished to give one of these drugs to a patient 
suffering from chronic Bright' s disease. Strophanthus is not 
cumulative. It has been recommended in exophthalmic goitre. 
Ouabaine has been given in whooping-cough. 

SULPHONAL. 

SULPHONAL. — Symbol, C 7 H 16 S 2 4 . Synonyms. — Diethyl-sulphon- 
dimethyl-m ethane. (CH 3 ) 2 C( S0 2 C 2 H 5 )2. 

Source. — Mecaptan (ethyl hydrosulphide) is combined with acetone to 
form meacaptol, which by oxidation with permanganate of potassium yields 
sulphonal. 

Characters. — Colorless, tabular crystals, inodorous, almost tasteless. 
Solubility- I in 450 of cold, I in 15 of boiling water, 1 in 90 of alcohol or 
ether, 1 in 3 of chloroform. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Sulphonal is an hypnotic. It does not depress the heart, but 
kills by paralysis of respiration. The drug is given for the 
same class of cases as chloral, but as it is so insoluble it is ab- 
sorbed with difficulty and very slowly ; hence it takes some hours 
to act, and its action may be prolonged into the next day. It 
produces its effect most rapidly if the fluid, in which it is sus- 
pended, is hot. It has been known to produce persistent erup- 
tions upon the skin. Several fatal cases of poisoning by this drug 
have been reported, and as well, severe general functional disturb- 
ances, have followed its use. 

THERIACA. 
TREACLE. — The uncrystallized residue in the refining of sugar. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Treacle is used as a flavoring agent. It is slightly demulcent 
and laxative. 



APPENDIX. 563 

THUS AMERICANUM. 

FRANKINCENSE. — The concrete turpentine scraped off the trunks 
of Pinus tceda, frankincense pine, and Pinus australis, the swamp pine, (Nat. 
Ord. Conifera). Southern United States. 

Characters. — When fresh it is a soft, yellow, opaque, tough solid, be- 
coming darker, dry, and brittle by keeping. Odor and taste as of other 
turpentines. 

Composition. — It is like other turpentines, an oleo-resin. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Frankincense is used for the same purposes as resin (see p. 400). 

UVJE. 

RAISINS.— The ripe fruit of Vitis vinifera (Nat. Ord. Ampelidce), the 
grapevine, dried in the sun, or partly by artificial heat. Spain. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Grape sugar, (2) Acid 
tartrate of potassium. (3) Other acids and salts. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Raisins are used as sweetening agents, and are demulcent. 

YEAST. 

CEREVISI^ FERMENTUM.— Beer yeast. The ferment obtained 
in brewer's beer, and produced by Saccharomyces ( Torula) Cerevisi&y (Nat. 
Ord. Fungi). 

Characters. — Viscid, semi-fluid, frothy, exhibiting under the microscope 
numerous roundish or oval cells, or filaments composed of ceils. Odor peculiar. 
Taste bitter. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 1 fl. oz. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

A yeast poultice (yeast 3, water at ioo° F. 3, flour 7,) has been 
applied to sloughing sores and ulcers, but it is rarely used. 

ZINCI SULPHOCARBOLAS. 

SULPHOCARBOLATE OF ZINC. Symbol.-Zn(C 6 H 5 S0 4 ) 2 
H 2 0. 

Source. — Sulphocarbolic acid is formed by adding sulphuric acid to car- 
bolic acid. This is treated with oxide of zinc, the sulphocarbolate of zinc crys- 
tallizes on evaporation. 



564 APPENDIX. 

Characters. — Colorless crystals, freely soluble in water. It is not given 
internally. 

ZINCI OLEATUM. 

OLEATE OF ZINC. 

Source. — By stirring oxide of zinc, 1 ; with oleic acid, 9 ; and heating 
until solution. 

Preparation, B. P. 

Unguentum Zinci Oleati. — Equal parts of oleate of zinc and 
soft paraffin. 

Uses. 

It is an excellent application when a less astringent prepara- 
tion than the sulphate is required. 

Equal parts of oleate of zinc, oleate of mercury and diachylon 
ointment, form an ointment which has the great advantage of be- 
ing transparent, and therefore the progress of the disease can be 
observed, without washing off the ointment. 



APPENDIX No. II. 

NON-PHARMACOPCEIAL REMEDIES 

The following drugs, although not in either of the Pharmacopoeias, are 
more or less often used. 

ACIDUM PYROGALLICUM. 

PYROGALLIC ACID. Symbol.— C 6 H s (OH) 3 . Synonym -Pyrogallol. 

Source. — Obtained by heat from gallic or tannic acid. 

Characters. — Light, small, white crystals. Odor none. Taste. — Very 
bitter, it produces a feeling of coldness on the tongue. Solubility.—! in 3^ of 
water, 1 in 10 of lard. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is used externally as an ointment (Jarisch's ointment is pyro- 
gallic acid, 60 gr.; lard, 1 oz.) for the treatment of chronic 
psoriasis. It is also an excellent parasiticide for ringworm. It 
must not be applied over too large a surface, as it may be ab- 
sorbed and produce toxic symptoms. Jarisch's ointment is very 
strong; a more usual strength is 10 or 20 gr to an ounce of lard. 

AMMONIO-MERCURIC CHLORIDE. 

SAL ALEMBROTH. —A double chloride of mercury and ammonium. 

Source. — Mix 271 parts of corrosive sublimate with 107 of chloride of 
ammonium, both in solution, and evaporate. 

Characters. — Flattened rhombic prisms, freely soluble in water or gly- 
cerin. It contains one molecule of corrosive sublimate combined with two of 
chloride of ammonium. Three grains of sal alembroth contain two grains of 
corrosive sublimate It is a very powerful antiseptic, but does not combine 
with albumen so readily as perchloride of mercury, and it is therefore less irri- 
tating. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Sal alembroth gauze (containing 1 per cent.) and sal alem- 
broth wool (2 per cent.), both tinted with aniline blue, which is 

565 



566 APPENDIX. 

bleached by the discharge, so that it is easy to see if it has soaked 
through, are much used to dress wounds antiseptically. 

Sal alembroth injections (^ gr. in 10 tt[ of water) are a con- 
venient non irritating form in which to inject mercury subcuta- 
neously in syphilis. The precautions mentioned on p. 182 should 
be observed. 

AMYL COLLOID. — The composition of this is hydride of amyl, 1 ^; 
aconitine, I gr.; veratrine, 6 gr. ; collodion to 2 §. It is a fluid preparation. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Amyl colloid is painted on the skin over painful areas in neu- 
ralgia, sciatica, &c. It is an elegant method of obtaining the 
local anaesthetic action of aconitine and veratrine, which is aided 
by the evaporation of the hydride of amyl. 

AMYLENE HYDRATE. 

Synonyms. — Dimethyl-ethyl- carbi nol ; Tertiary Amyl Alcohol. Symbol. — 
(CH 3 ) 2 C 2 H 5 COH. 

Source. — By the action of sulphuric acid on amylene, separation of the 
amylenesulphuric acid, dilution, filtration, neutralization and distillation. 

Characters. — A limpid, colorless liquid, of a peculiar odor. Sp. gr. 
0.81. It is soluble in 8 parts of water, readily in alcohol, ether or chloroform. 

Dose, ]/ 2 to 1 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Amylene hydrate is a hypnotic, about midway in power be- 
tween chloral and peraldehyde, having a pleasanter taste than the 
latter. It is a safe hypnotic, having no action upon the heart or 
respiration, and it may have also anodyne properties. It can be 
administered in wine, raspberry syrup, or simply in water. After 
continued use it is apt to disagree with the stomach. 

ARISTOL. 

Di-thymol di-iodide. Symbol.—^ 7 t C 6 H 2 (OI)C — C(OI)H 2 cJ ^ 7 

Source. — It is prepared by the decomposition of a solution of iodine in 
iodide of potassium, by an alcoholic solution of thymol. It contains about 46 per 
cent, of iodine. 



APPENDIX. 567 

Characters. — An amorphous brownish-red, odorless, non-toxic powder, 
insoluble in water and glycerin, soluble in ether and alcohol, is readily taken 
up by fatty oils. 

Action and Uses. 

r It is used for the same purposes as is iodoform {see p. 256) in 
various skin diseases, as lupus, psoriasis and for tertiary syphilis, 
both in ointments, lanoline, flexible collodion and as a powder. 
It has the very great advantage of being free from odor. 

ASEPTOL. 

SOZOLIC ACID. — Ortho-phenol-sulphonic acid. Sulphocarbol. Sym- 
bol — (C 6 H 5 OS0 3 H = C 6 H 4 OHS0 2 H . ) 

Characters. — A brownish-red, syrupy liquid, formed by the union of car- 
bolic and sulphuric acids; sp.gr. 1.45. It generally contains one -third sozolic 
acid. It has a slight odor and is soluble in alcohol, water and glycerin. 

Uses. 

Aseptol is an antiseptic, less powerful than carbolic acid; 
used in aqueous solution, of the strength of five to ten per cent. 
It is not poisonous, nor has it irritating properties. 

BENZOSOL. 

BENZOYL-GUAIACOL.— Symbol.— C 6 H 4 OCH 2 OCOC 6 H 5 . 

Source. — By formation of a potassium salt from guaiacol, which is warmed 
with benzoyl-chloride, and recrystallized. 

Characters. — A colorless, crystalline powder, insoluble in water, readily 
soluble in hot alcohol, ether and in chloroform. It contains 54 per cent, of 
guaiacol. 

Dose, 4 to 12 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Benzosol was introduced as a nearly tasteless combination for 

the administration of guaiacol, and which would not affect the 

alimentary tract. In the digestive tract it splits up into guaiacol 

and benzoic acid. 

BETAL. 

Naphthol ; naphthosalol ; Salicylic ether of Beta-naphthol ; Salinapthol. 
Symbol.— C 6 H 4 OHCOOC 10 H 7 . 



568 APPENDIX. 

Source. — By heating together a mixture of Beta-naphtol-sodium, sodium 
salicylate in phosphoric chloride. 

Characters. — A colorless, tasteless, crystalline powder, insoluble in 
water or glycerin. 

Dose, 5 to 8 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

It was expected to prove as valuable as salol ; its chemical 

stability and lower degree of solubility were marked disadvantages. 

It is used to a limited extent for vesical catarrhs, gonorhcea and 

rheumatism. It decomposes, in the body, into /?-naphthol and 

salicylic acid. 

BISMUTHI SALICYLAS. 

SALICYLATE OF BISMUTH.— Symbol.— Bi(C 7 H 5 3 ) 3 .Bi 2 3 . 

Source. — Is prepared by diluting a glycerin solution of crystallized 
bismuthous nitrate with water, and decomposing this with a concentrated 
aqueous solution of sodium salicylate ; the precipitate is well washed with hot 
water and carefully dried. It contains about 76 per cent, of bismuth oxide and 
23 per cent, of salicylic acid. 

Characters. — It is a soft, white powder, insoluble in water, glycerin and 
ether, but soluble in acids. 

Dose, 5 to 20 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Salicylate of bismuth is an unirritating, intestinal antiseptic, 
and as such, is of great value as in the treatment 01 diarrhoea, 
typhoid fever, gastric and intestinal catarrh. 

BROMOFORM. 

TRIBROMOMETHANE.- Symbol.— CHBr 3 . 

Source. — By the action of bromine upon a solution of equal parts of 
Caustic potash and alcohol. 

Characters. — A clear, colorless liquid, of a not unpleasant odor, and a 
sweet taste. Sp. gr. 2.9. It is but slightly soluble in water but is readily sol- 
uble in alcohol. 

Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

Action and Uses. 

Bromoform is an anaesthetic. It has been used as a remedy 
of great value for whooping-cough, for which its pleasant taste 
and convenience of administration gave it great advantage. Cases 
of poisoning have been reported, so that it must be used with care. 



APPENDIX. 569 

CACTUS. 

CEREUS GRANDIFLORUS. Synonym.— Night-blooming Cereus. 
The stems of Cactus Grandiflorus (Nat. Ord. Cactece). West Indian Islands. 

Characters. — Its branches, or stems are scandent, diffuse, radicant, 
slightly 5-7 angular; areolae, 5-1 2 spinulose ; spinules short, 2-3 lines long, 
nearly equalling the whorl ; flowers large, nocturnal, white, pleasantly and 
strongly fragrant ; the calyx is about 6 to 8 in. in diameter ; the inside being of 
a splendid yellow, the outside is of a dark brown; the petals of a pure white; 
and there is a vast number of recurved stamens in the centre. 

Preparation. 

Fluid Extract of the fleshy branches with flowers. 
Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Action and Uses. 

The action of cactus is upon the intra-cardiac ganglia and 
accelerator nerves, through the cardiac plexus of the sympathetic, 
and there is not any interference with the inhibitory nerves, 
nor, indeed, does its administration produce any very marked 
vaso motor changes. It shortens the ventricular diastole, and in- 
creases the blood pressure. It is useful in cardiac weakness, that 
is, relative incompetency; in convalescence from typhoid fever; 
in simple eccentric cardiac dilatation ; in functional cardiac dis- 
eases, from tea, coffee, tobacco and alcohol, dyspepsia, neu- 
rasthenia of the climacteric, sexual exhaustion; in the "slow 
heart/ ' from overstimulation of the pneumogastric or degeneration 
of the muscular wall of the ventricles. It is of very great use in 
aortic regurgitation, but is absolutely contra-indicated in mitral 
stenosis, thus being of value in those cases where the use of 
digitalis is inadmissible. It has a sphere of action entirely of its 
own, not, however, replacing the digitalis or the aconite group, 
but it is useful in many cases, where these drugs are not only 
dangerous but absolutely contra-indicated. 

CHLORALAMIDE. 

CHLORAL, AM IDE. Synonym. — Chloral formamide. Symbol. — 
CCl 3 CH,OH,CONH 2 . 

Source. — rBy the combination of chloral and formamide. 



5 70 APPENDIX. 

Characters. — Shining colorless crystals. Taste, slightly bitter. Solu- 
bility. — Slowly, in about I in 20 of water, 1 in 4 of alcohol, and in weak acid 
solutions. Should not be heated over 140 F., or mixed with alkalies, for, in 
either case, it decomposes. 

Dose, 15 to 50 gr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Chloralamide is an excellent hypnotic, producing calm, re- 
freshing sleep without any bad after-effects. Frequent use does 
not necessitate an increased dose, nor, as far as we know, is any 
chloralamide habit contracted. It does not relieve pain, but is 
equally serviceable for all varieties of insomnia, unless due to pain. 
If possible it should not be given as a powder, for it is then 
so very slowly absorbed, that probably some of it is decomposed 
in the intestines or stomach; occasionally, when powdered chlo- 
ralamide has been administered in the evening, the patient has 
not slept during the night, but has slept all the next day, because 
the drug has been so slowly absorbed. The best way to give it is 
to dissolve it in a little alcohol. The patient may be told to dis- 
solve 20 or more grains in sufficient brandy, to add water not 
above 130 F., and drink it before going to bed. Some speci- 
mens are very insoluble, and must be suspended. It is said that 
10 minims of aromatic sulphuric acid added to gj of water will 
dissolve 30 gr. of chloralamide, but this is not always true. It 
acts if given as an enema. 

COCILLANA. — The bark of Sycocarpus Rusbyi (Nat.Ord. Meliacecz.) 
Bolivia. 

Characters. — The bark is thick, and ash-colored, becoming rough only 
with considerable age; inner surface is grayish -yellow; the odor is slight but 
peculiar; taste unpleasant (not bitter), slightly nauseous. 

Preparation. 
Fluid Extract. Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Action and Uses. 

Cocillafia acts upon muciparous glands, increasing their ac- 
tivity ; on the bronchial mucous membrane, causing expectora- 



APPENDIX. 571 

tion ; on the intestinal mucous membrane, producing a laxative 
effect; it also slightly increases the appetite; it slightly strengthens 
the heart beat, and the pulse, but does not stimulate the respira- 
tory centre. It is of very great value as an expectorant, prefer- 
able to ipecacuanha, in that it does not so readily cause nausea 
and a metallic taste in the mouth, and assists the regular move- 
ment of the bowels. If, however, nausea should be produced, 
it is very persistent. Its action is fully established three to six 
hours after administration, and persists at least for six hours. It 
can, in many cases, be substituted for apomorphine, carbonate of 
ammonia and for many other drugs, classed with more or less 
reason, as expectorants. 

CONVALLARIA MAJALIS.— The lily of the valley (Nat. Ord. 
Liliacece). The entire plant is used. Russia. 

Characters. — Leaves 4 to 6 in. long, radical, oblong, tapering. Flower 
stem leafless, radical, shorter than the leaves. Flowers white, bell shaped, 
drooping, forming a loose raceme. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (1) Convallamarin, C 23 H 44 12 
a glucoside, the active principle. (2) Convallarin, a glucoside, said only to 
purge, in doses of 3 to 4 gr. Symbol C 34 H 62 O u . 

Preparations (Brit. Pharm. Conference). 

1. Extractum Convallariae. — Aqueous, of the whole flowering 
plant. 

Dose, 2 to 8 gr. 

2. Tinctura Convallariae. — The flowers, 1 ; proof spirit, 8. 
Dose, 5 to 20 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of Convallaria Majalis is precisely that of digitalis, 
and it may be given in exactly the same varieties of heart disease. 
It is sometimes successful when digitalis has failed. It is not so 
powerful as digitalis, but some find it less likely to produce sick- 
ness. 

COTO. 

COTO. — The bark of an unknown tree, found in Bolivia. 
Characters. — In irregular pieces, outer surface irregular as well as the 
inner surface ; color, cinnamon-brown ; upon fresh cross-section the bark is seen 



572 APPENDIX. 

to be filled with yellowish spots, except in the outer portions ; odor aromatic, 
especially if bruised ; the powder is very pungent ; Resembling Coto bark. — Para- 
coto bark, which has a less powerful odor and taste, and is marked with deep, 
whitish furrows upon its surface. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are — (i) A crystallizable body, 
Cotoin. (2) A volatile oil. (3) A resin. (4) Tannin. (5) Piperonylic acid. 
Symbol . — C 8 H 6 4 . 

Dose, 1 to 10 gr. 

Preparations. v 

1. Abstract. Dose, yi to 5 gr. 

2. Tincture. Dose, 1 to 10 m. 

3. Liquid Extract B. P. Dose, 2 to 6 rri. 

COTOIN.— Symbol.— C 22 H 18 6 . 

Characters. — A pale yellow, amorphous powder, or in minute, curved, 
crystalline prisms, non- volatile, slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol, 
ether, and chloroform. It has a bitter taste and the dust is irritating to the 
nostrils. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

PARA-COTOIN.— Is extracted from Paracoto bark. Symbol.— 
C 19 rl 12 6 . 

Characters. — It is in minute laminar crystals, paler than cotoin, soluble 
in ether, chloroform, boiling alcohol, and somewhat in boiling water, but from 
this, it separates on cooling. 

Dose, 1 to 3 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Coto is not astringent, but because it produces absorption, 
coto bark, cotoin and paracotoin (the last being weaker than cotoin) 
have established a reputation as remedies for diarrhoea, whether 
infantile, in phthisis or in typhoid fever. It also checks saliva- 
tion and night sweats. It should not be combined with Mistura 

Cretae. 

CREOLIN. 

Source. — Creolin is derived from coal tar and consists of a mixture of the 
sodium salts of some resinous acids with creolin oil and pyridines. 

Characters. — A dark brown, alkaline liquid containing in solution the 
higher homologues of phenol. It forms a turbid, milky mixture with water, 



APPENDIX. 573 

which has the characteristic odor of the preparation. It is non-poisonous, it is 
not caustic, or even irritating, and has been largely adopted in place of carbolic 
acid. 

Dose, 5 m. 

Action and Uses. 

It is a harmless, cheap, non-irritating but powerful antiseptic. 
It is used pure, in solution (2 percent.), in ointment or as a 
soap, 10 per cent. It has been used internally in gastric fermen- 
tation, dysentery and typhoid fever. 

CURARE. 

WOORARA. Synonyms. — Ourari, Urari, Wourali. The South 
American arrow poison, prepared from species of Strychnos and other plants. 

Characters. — A blackish-brown dry extract with a bitter taste. 

Composition. — It contains an extremely active poison, curarine or cura- 
rina. Symbol. — C 18 H 35 N, a yellowish-brown powder, intensely bitter. 

Dose, J5 to % gr. 

Preparation (Brit. Pharm. Conference). 

Injectio Curarae Hypo dermic a. — Curare, 5 gr. ; add distilled 
water to form a thin paste. Put in a funnel plugged with absorbent 
wool, and gradually add more water till a drachm is obtained. 

Dose, 1 to 6 m. (subcutaneously). 

Lamellae or discs, each containing 2V °f a g ra i n > are a l so P re_ 
pared. They are dissolved in a few minims of water before injection 
subcutaneously. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The physiological action of curare, by which it paralyzes the 
end plates of the motor nerves of voluntary muscle, is well known. 
It has been given successfully in tetanus, and is probably one of the 
most useful of all the drugs employed for this very fatal disease. 

DERMATOL. — This yellow, basic gallate of bismuth in fine powder, 
insoluble in most menstrua, and non-toxic, and non-irritant, is coming more in- 
to use. Used like iodoform, it has a drying and anti-bacterial effect on wounds. 
Excellent as a dusting powder, or as an ointment (1 in 10 of vaseline, etc.), it 
may be used in gauze, 10 per cent. It is non-stimulant, and therefore valueless 
in chronic or torpid ulcerations. 



574 APPENDIX. 

DIURETIN.— (Sodio-Theobromine-Salicylate)C 7 H 7 NaN 4 2 ,C 6 H 4 OHC 
OON.A 

Source. — By the interaction of sodium theobromine and sodium salicylate. 
It corresponds to the caffeine-sodio salicylate, the salt of caffeine most used in 
Germany, and contains 44.5 per cent, of theobromine. 

Characters. — A white powder soluble in less than half its weight of 
warmed water, the solution remaining perfect when cooled. 

Dose, 60 to 120 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

It is a pure diuretic, without action upon the heart. It has 
been administered with benefit in cases of severe cardiac or hepatic 
dropsy. It is said that it does not produce depression, but it may 
occasionally give rise to severe symptoms, which may be due to 
impurities. 

DUBOISINE SULPHAS.— The sulphate of the alkaloid duboisine 
obtained from the leaves of Dubosia myoporoides. Duboisine is probably 
identical with hyoscine (see p. 289). 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The actions of duboisine are like those of atropine, and 
ophthalmic discs containing 1-5000 of a grain are used to dilate 
the pupil. 

ERYTHROPHLCEUM.- Casca Bark. Synonyms.— Sassy Bark, Or- 
deal Bark. The bark of Erythrophlceum Guineense (Nat. Ord. Leguininosa), 
Africa. 

Composition. — The active principle is erythrophlceine, an alkaloid. 

Preparation (Brit. Pharm. Conference). 

Tinctura Erythrophlcei. — Sassy bark, 1 ; rectified spirit, 10. 
Dose, 5 to 10 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

The action of erythrophlceum is the same as that of digitalis, 
and it may be used for the same class of cases. It is, however, 
more likely to cause vomiting. 

ETHYL BROMIDE. 
BROMIDE OF ETHYL. — Bromethyl, Ether Bromatus, Monobro- 
ethane. C 2 H 5 Br. 



APPENDIX. 575 

Source. — From alcohol and sulphuric acid, with bromide of potassium 
and distillation. 

Characters. — A colorless, inflammable liquid, with a sweet odor and a 
burning taste. Sp. gr. 1.38. Not miscible with water. It must be used when 
quite fresh. 

Action and Uses. 

Bromide of ethyl is a rapid and transient anaesthetic, abol- 
ishing pain without, however, complete loss of consciousness. It 
is useful in minor and dental surgery. It is contraindicated in 
alcoholism, and bronchial, renal and cardiac disease. 

ETHYL CHLORINATED CHLORIDE. 

CHLORINATED CHLORIDE OF ETHYL.— Synonyms.— Bi- 
chloride of Ethidene, Monochlorethyl-chloride. 

Characters. — A colorless, volatile liquid possessing the odor and taste of 
chloroform. It is said to be identical with chloride of ethylidene. It has an 
sp. gr. about 1.2; isomeric with ethylene (Dutch liquid), but the boiling point 
and sp. gr. are higher. It is miscible in all proportions with pure ether, alcohol 
and chloroform, soluble about I in 300 in water. 

Uses. 

It is used as an anaesthetic, and is much safer than chloro- 
form, but is more costly. It is pleasanter, more rapid in action, 
causes no excitement during nor after its administration ; there is 
more rapid recovery from it. 



EUROPHEN 



,— Isobutyl-orthocresol-iodide. f ^M C 6 H 3 JHI. It 

is prepared by the interchange of isobutyl alcohol and orthocresol in the 
presence of zinc chloride. This powder is an antiseptic. It is an amorphous, 
yellowish powder, and contains about 28 per cent, of iodine. Soluble in alco- 
hol, ether and in about 4 parts of olive oil ; insoluble in water or glycerin. A 
powerful germicide and bactericide ; used for wounds, like iodoform, and in 
similar quantities. 

EXALGINE. 

METHYL ACETANILIDE.— Symbol.— C 6 H 5 N(CH 3 )CH 3 CO. 
Source. — By warming together mono-methylaniline and acetyl chloride. 
Characters. — Colorless, acicular needles, with a slightly saline taste. 
Solubility, — I in 60 of water, freely in alcohol. 
Dose, 2 to 5 gr. 



576 appendix. 

Action and Uses. 

Exalgine is a powerful analgesic, and has been used with 
success for neuralgia. Often it relieves when many other drugs 
have failed. Medicinal doses hardly ever cause depression. Large 
doses are antipyretic, but are not used for this purpose. It is 
used for sciatica, rheumatism, and of late for chorea. Several 
severe cases of poisoning having been reported, the usual dose 
should not be exceeded. 

EXTRACTUM CARNIS. 

EXTRACT OF MEAT.— This preparation has for its object the ob- 
taining the nutritive matters of the flesh of animals in a permanent, concen- 
trated state. 

Source. — Equal parts of meat and cold water. Straining, evaporation 
and straining. 

Characters. — Reddish-brown in color, of a slightly acrid taste, and of 
a disagreeable odor. 

Composition. — ioo parts of meal yield 25 of extract. It is rich in 
nitrogenous principles, but contains neither fat nor gelatin. The method 
of Liebig has been followed, with variations, by a large number of manufac- 
turers. The product, however, by no means represents the nutritive qualities 
of the meat itself, because the albumen and fibrine are largely wanting, be- 
sides an endeavor is put forth to get rid of the gelatin and fat. Of late the 
attempt has been made to retain these important nutritive principles. The 
beef meal which was used by Debove in his method of forced feeding (gavage) 
was practically desiccated beef; but it did not have its highest nutritive value 
because it was, to a considerable extent, composed of insoluble matters. The 
classical studies of Wurtz showed that in the juice of the Carica papaya 
(Nat. Ord. PassifiorcE) was a principle, called papain, capable of converting 
albuminoids into soluble albumoses and peptones. The fact that a similar 
vegetable digestive principle exists in the juice of the pine-apple and allied 
plants of the Nat. Ord. Bromeliacece, as was first shown by Marcafio, has been 
utilized in the manufacture of the Mosquera- Julia beef meal, where the pro- 
cess of digestion is carried on before desiccation, or it may be made as a jelly. 
The advantages of a vegetable over an animal pepsin, the greater acceptability 
to weak stomachs, the avoidance of the unpleasant taste and the disagreeable 
odor, and absence of bitterness, are very important. By this method the pre- 
paration contains only ten per cent, of water, has four times the amount ot 
albuminoid matter present in average lean beef, one-half of which is already 



APPENDIX. 577 

in an assimilable form, and about three times as much fat, in addition. Be- 
sides, it is very convenient for administration. 

Action and Uses. 

It is useful as a nutrient and a stimulant in relieving prostration 
and fatigue. The broth seasoned with capsicum is valuable in 
alcoholic excess and delirium tremens. In the infantile bowel 
disturbances, when milk must be forbidden, it is often indicated. 
In phthisis it will frequently sustain the patient ; in the aged it will 
support life without taxing the digestive powers. The amount to be 
used should be regulated by the age and condition of the patient. 

FERRUM DIALYSATUM. 

DIALYZED IRON. 

Source. — By heating a solution of chloride of iron with ammonia, ferric 
hydrates being precipitated, this being redissolved by agitation, is placed in a 
dialyzer and suspended in water, which is renewed so long as it shows a trace 
of hydrochloric acid. 

Characters. — A reddish-brown liquid, free from astringent, styptic taste. 

Composition. — Its composition varies from Fe 2 Cl 6 , i2Fe 2 3 to Fe 2 Cl 6 , 95 
Fe 2 O a and is a 10 per cent, solution of ferric oxychloride in water. 

Dose, 10 to 30 m. 

Uses. 

In arsenical poisoning a dose of common salt or bicarbonate of 
sodium, followed by 1 fl oz. of dialyzed iron diluted with water, 
is efficient. It is not considered an eligible iron preparation. 

GUAIACOL. 

METHYL PYROCATECHIN.— Symbol, C 6 H 4 OHOCH 8 . A liquid 
constituting from 60 to 90 per cent of creosote [See p. 254) which is mainly 
composed of this and creosol. 

Source. — From distillation of beech- wood tar. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid of a powerful aromatic odor. Sp. gr. 
I.I 17. Very slightly soluble in water. 

Dose, 1 to 15 m. 

Action and Uses. 

Guaiacol is used for the same purposes as creasote. It is, 
however less likely to irritate the intestinal canal and the kid- 

49 



578 APPENDIX. ' 

neys. The salicylate has also been introduced as a mild prep- 
aration. 

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE 

PEROXIDE OF HYDROGEN.— Symbol.— H 2 2 . Used in solu- 
tion, i to 10. 

Dose, i to 4 fl. dr. 

Therapeutics. 

It gives oxygen to the blood, improves digestion and relieves 
spasms of whooping-cough, and dyspepsia. It is also a non-poi- 
sonous antiseptic, destroying organized fermentations, as pus, 
and liberating oxygen. It is valuable in suppurating sores and 
for surgical dressings. 

ICHTHYOL. — Symbol, — C 28 H 36 S 3 6 (NH 4 ) 2 . Synonym. — Sulpho- 
ichthyolate of ammonium. 

Source. — A bituminous quartz containing the fossil remains of fish and 
other animals is distilled with sulphuric acid, and the distillate is neutralized 
with ammonia. 

Characters. — A viscous, brownish, almost black substance. Odor 
tarry. Soluble in water, glycerin, oils, fats, and vaseline. 

Dose, 10 to 30 gr. 

Sulphoichthyolates of lithium, sodium, and zinc are prepared. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Ichthyol is chiefly used externally for chronic eczema and 
psoriasis. An ointment with lanoline and ichthyol 20 to 50 per 
cent, is easily made. Ichthyol has been given as a pill in 10 to 
30 grain doses, thrice a day, for chronic rheumatism. 

IODOL. 
TETRA IODOPYRROL.— Symbol.— C 4 I 4 NH. 

Source. — From the interaction of iodine and pyrrol in alcoholic solutions. 
Characters. — A pale yellow, bulky powder, odorless and tasteless. It 
is insoluble in water. 
Dose, 8 to 15 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

It was introduced as an antiseptic iodine compound, and is 
used for the same purposes as iodoform. It has been administered 
internally as a substitute for iodide of potassium. 



APPENDIX. 579 

THIOPHEN.— (C 4 H 4 S.) A body closely allied to pyrrol, has not been 
used in medicine. There are, however, two derivatives, (i) Sodium thiophen 
sulphonate (C 4 H 3 SNaS0 3 ), and (2) Thiophen di-iodide (C 4 H 2 L 2 S), which have 
attracted considerable attention. The former has been used as a substitute for 
/3-naphthol, and the latter in place of iodoform. It does not give rise to 
poisoning, nor eczema, and it apparently is a stimulant to granulation tissue. 

LYSOL. 
LYSOL. 

Source. — From tar-oil, by dissolving in fat and saponifying with alcohol. 

Characters. — A brown, oily-looking, clear liquid, with a slightly creasote- 

like odor, soluble in all proportions in water. 

Composition. — It contains about 50 per cent of cresols. 

Action and Uses. 

Lysol is an antiseptic, about one-eighth as poisonous as car- 
bolic acid, and one-half as poisonous as creolin, used in from 
one-half to two per cent, aqueous solution. The literature is 
voluminous and generally favorable. 

METHYLENE BLUE.— (Tetra Methylthionine Chloride.) Symbol. 
_NS(C 6 H 3 ) 2 , 2N(CH 3 ) 2 C1. 

Characters. — Small, indigo-colored scaly crystals, slightly soluble in 
water. 

Dose, 3 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Methylene blue has been used for rheumatism of the joints and 
muscles. Lately it has been given for intermittent fevers, but the 
reports show that it possesses no advantages over quinine. It im- 
parts a blue color to nerve substances, and a like color to the 
urine. The Pyoctanins (blue and yellow) two other aniline 
dyes, have been introduced into medicine as antiseptics. They 
have also been used by injection into inoperable neoplasms, sar- 
comata, epitheliomata, but while it is believed that, by them, a 
cure is not impossible, no definite statements can be made. 

MILK. 

ARTIFICIAL HUMAN MILK. 

Preparation. — Take half a pint of skimmed milk, heat it to about 96 



580 APPENDIX. 

F., and put into the warmed milk a piece of rennet an inch square or a tea- 
spoonful of essence of rennet. Put the milk in a fender, or over a lamp, until 
it is quite warm. As soon as it is set, remove the rennet, break up the curd 
into small pieces with a knife, and let it stand for ten or fifteen minutes ; the 
curd will then sink. Then pour the whey into a saucepan and boil quickly. 
Measure one-third of a pint of this whey, and dissolve in it, while it is hot, 
110 grains of sugar of milk. When this third of a pint of whey is cold, add 
to it two-thirds of a pint of new milk and two teaspoonfuls of cream and stir- 
The food sliould be made fresh every twelve hours, and warmed as required. 
The piece of rennet, when taken out, can be kept in a cup and used for ten 
days or a fortnight. Care should be taken to select an essence of rennet, which 
does not make the milk taste. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Artificial human milk is invaluable as a food for infants whose 
mothers cannot suckle them. Many cases of infantile diarrhoea, 
indigestion, and sickness can be cured by substituting this milk 
for the usual milk and water or infants' food. Some large dairy 
firms supply it, but it is cheaper to make it at home, and the above 
directions are easily carried out. 

MILK, PEPTONIZED. 

Preparation. — Mix a pint of milk with 5 fluid ounces of water. Heat 
to 140°, and add Liquor Pancreatus (Benger's), 2 fl. dr.; or Zymine, B. P., 
(Fairchild's Extractum Pancreatis), 5 gr.; and bicarbonate of sodium, 20 grs. 
Leave the mixture at the ordinary temperature of the room for three hours, or 
if kept at about 135 F. for about half an hour, then heat for a moment to 
boiling-point. This preparation should be kept on ice until required. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Peptonized milk is used in many conditions in which it is 
thought that the gastric digestion is too feeble to digest ordinary 
milk, or in which it is desired to avoid the curdling of milk in 
the stomach. Milk should always be peptonized before being 
introduced into an enema. A usual nutrient enema consists of 
the yolk of an egg and milk up to four fluid ouuces. This mix- 
ture may be peptonized in just the same way and with the same 
quantity of peptonizing agents as the pint of milk. Thirty 
grains of common salt should be added to the enema before use. 



APPENDIX. 581 

OPIUM. — The following non-officinal preparations are used: — Liquor 
Opii Sedativus (Battley's solution), about 50 per cent, stronger than laudanum. 
Acetum Opii Crocatum (black drop), four times as strong as laudanum. Syden- 
ha???s laudanum is a tincture of opium flavored with saifron. 

NAPHTHALINUM.— Naphthalin, naphthalene. Symbol.— C 10 H 8 . 

Source. — By subjecting coal tar to distillation, when it passes over after 
the coal naphtha. 

Characters. — It appears as a white, or shining, crystalline substance, fusi- 
ble at 176 F. Solubility. — It is soluble in alcohol, chloroform, ether, naph- 
tha, and the oils, bat insoluble in water, either acidulous or alkaline. 

Dose, 1 to 20 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

As naphthalin is not absorbed by the system, it acts only upon 
the mucous membrane of the bowels. It is a true intestinal an- 
tiseptic, and is of great value in dysentery, catarrhal, typhoid and 
phthisical diarrhoea, when it markedly lessens or entirely abolishes 
the fee tor of the movements. It has also been used as a vermifuge. 
Success in the treatment of dysentery usually requires a daily 
dose of 120 gr. best administered in starch wafers with oil of 
bergamot. 

NAPHTOL. (Iso- or 0-Naphtol). Symbol.— C 19 H 7 OH. 
Source. — By the action of fuming sulphuric acid upon naphthalin. 
Characters. — Colorless, scaly crystals, with a faint odor, and a transient, 
burning taste. Soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, oils and alkaline liquids. 
Dose, 5 to 10 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Naphtol was introduced as an antiseptic, at first in dermato- 
logical practice as a 10 per cent, ointment, in scabies, ringworm 
and psoriasis. It is a remedy of great value in obtaining intestinal 
antisepsis, bacteriological investigations showing that it destroys 
certain micro-organisms in situ. If it is irritating to the bowels it 
can be administered in keratin-coated pills. 

OPIUM. 

The following alkaloids are sometimes used : 

THEBAINE— Para-morphine. Symbol. — C 19 H 21 N0 3 . It is con- 
tained in opium 0.15 to 0.30 per cent. 



582 APPENDIX. 

Characters, — In long white, four-sided, rhombic prisms, odorless and 
having a bitterish taste. 

NARCEINE. Symbol. — C 23 H 29 N0 9 . It is contained in opium 0.02 
per cent., and is in white, feathery crystals, and is very difficult to obtain pure. 
Dose, % to 1 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Narceine closely resembles morphine in its action, but is prob- 
ably more hypnotic, and it is not followed by the disagreeable after 
effects. Thebaine is rarely used ; it resembles strychnine in its 
action. 

OREXIN HYDROCHLORIDE.— (Phenyldihydrochinazoline hydro- 

{NCH. 
chloride). Symbol.-C 6 H 4 { CHa NC e H 6 HCl. 

Characters. — Colorless, odorless, lanceolate crystals, efflorescent, of bit- 
ter and pungent taste, freely soluble in hot water. 
Dose, 5 to 8 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Orexin has been recommended as a true stomachic, stimu- 
lating the appetite and increasing the functional activity of the 
digestive organs. It is useful in the anorexia of phthisis and of 
shock following operations, in anaemia, inanition and chronic 
gastric catarrh. It is not suitable for diseases of the stomach, 
such as acute catarrh or gastric ulcer. 

OXYCHINASEPTOL. Synonym.— Diaphtherin. Symbol.— HO, 
C 9 H 6 NH,0,S0 2 ,C 6 H 4 ,0,NHC 9 H 6 ,OH. 

Source. — A combination of oxychinolin with aseptol. 
Characters. — A sulphur-yellow powder, having an odor somewhat like 
phenol, soluble in both cold and warm water. 

Action and Uses. 

This is one of the very latest antiseptics of high power, as 
compared with lysol, carbolic acid and phenol. It tarnishes in- 
struments, and stains the hands yellow. It is apparently not 
irritant, and does not give rise to eczema. It is employed in 
aqueous solution of the strength of (generally), ^ to 2 per cent. 
It is relatively, not poisonous. 



APPENDIX. 583 

PANCREATIN. — Zymine, B. P. — In the pancreatic juice of man, it is 
believed that four elements are contained : (1) Trypsin; (2) curdling ferment; 
(3) pancreatic diastase; (4) emulsin ferment. 

Pancreatin is a desiccated preparation of the pancreas, mixed with pow- 
dered malt, very hygroscopic. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Pancreatin is used as an artificial agent to assist the digestion 
of invalids and of old persons, or those prostrated by fever or ex- 
haustion. By means of this, food may be partially or wholly 
digested previous to administration. As it digests starches, fats 
and proteids, its field of usefulness is large. It should be used in 
combination with an alkali. 

PARISH'S FOOD.— A complicated preparation. The Syrupus Ferri 
Phosphatis Compositus of the Brit. Pharm. Conference corresponds to it. The 
ingredients of this are metallic iron, concentrated phosphoric acid, precipitated 
carbonate of calcium, bicarbonate of potassium, phosphate of sodium, cochi- 
neal, sugar, and distilled water. See p. 170. 

Dose, y 2 to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is a pleasant preparation, given for the sake of the phos- 
phates and iron in it. Children take it easily. 

PENTAL.- (Tri-methyl-ethylene). Symbol.— C 5 H 10 . 

Source. — It is obtained by heating amylene hydrate in the presence of 
acids. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid, insoluble in water, but miscible in all 
proportions with alcohol, ether, and chloroform, highly inflammable. Sp. gr. 
0.6783. 

Action and Uses. 

Pental is an anaesthetic, the equal of nitrous oxide in rapidity 
of action and safety, but superior to it, in its more prolonged 
action and in having no unpleasant after-effects. Even when in- 
sensibility to pain is reached, consciousness is retained sufficiently, 
to respond to commands. The stage of exhilaration is seldom 
present ; it does not lose its effect by repeated inhalations. It 
differs from chloroform in that it acts more promptly, and has no 



584 APPENDIX. 

evil after-effects ; from bromide of ethyl, in that it is somewhat 
slower in its action, but is more lasting in its effects, and can be 
prolonged as may be necessary; from nitrous oxide, in that it 
can be continued for a longer time, and in its freedom from un- 
pleasant effects and in its safety. 

PHENOCOLL HYDROCHLORIDE. — Symbol.— C 6 H 4 .OC 2 H 5 . 
NHCO.CH 2 .NH 2 , HC1. 

Source. — By the intermixture of phenetidine and glycocoll or amido- 
acetic acid. 

Characters. — It is a white crystalline powder, soluble in about 16 parts 
of water. 

Dose, 5 to 15 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Phenocoll hydrochloride is non-poisonous to animals, and it 
does not injuriously affect the blood. It is an antipyretic, not 
followed by collapse or cyanosis ; the perspiration is not stronger 
than after larger doses of antipyrin. It has also been used as an 
antineuralgic \ in severe acute articular rheumatism it has exer- 
cised a beneficial action upon the joints when all other remedies 
have failed. It is rapidly excreted by the urine, to which it gives 
a brownish color. The reports, of which there are now a con- 
siderable number, are favorable to this remedy. 

PICHI. — The leaves of the woody shrub, Fabiana Imbricata (Nat. Ord. 
Solanacece). Peru, Chili. 

Characteristics. — A woody shrub growing on rocky hill-tops, with 
plume-like sprays, the small densely crowded leaves much resembling those of 
a conifer. The branches and leafy branchlets are resinous, with an aromatic 
odor and taste. 

Composition. — It contains (1) an essential oil, (2) a resin, (3) a crystall- 
izing substance, (4) a bitter alkaloid, fabianine. 

Dose 10 to 40 m. of the fluid extract. 

Therapeutics. 

Pichi is a diuretic of great value in inflammation of blad- 
der and catarrh of the urinary tract. It is best prescribed with 
an alkali. 



APPENDIX. 585 

PIPERAZINE. — Piperazidine ; Ethylenimine ; Diethylendiamine ; 
Dispermine. Symbol. — C 4 H 10 N 2 . 

Source. — Probably from hydrochlorate of ethylenediamine. 

Characters. — It occurs in colorless, well defined, acicular crystals, 
readily soluble in water. In cold aqueous solutions with uric acid, it will dis- 
solve twelve times as much, as will carbonate of lithium. 

Dose, 5 to 8 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Piperazine increases the amount of urea, while the uric acid 
is diminished. It has been used in mental diseases and also in 
ead paralysis. There is opportunity for further investigation. 

PISCIDIA. 

JAMAICA DOGWOOD.— The bark of the root of Piscidia Eryth- 
rina (Nat. Ord. Leguminosce} West India Islands. 

Characters. — In pieces about yfc in. in thickness ; outer surface of a 
dark gray-brown ; inner surface is of a dark brown color, and very fibrous. It 
has a disagreeable odor of opium when broken ; taste acrid, and it produces a 
burning sensation in the mouth. 

Composition. — The chief constituents are a neutral principle, Piscidin, C 29 
H 24 8 , which by recrystallization appears in colorless crystals, insoluble in 
water, soluble in chloroform and boiling alcohol. 

Preparation. 

Fluid extract, not miscible with water. 
Dose, ]/ z to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Uses. 

Jamaica dogwood is a narcotic, which does not affect the 
irritability of motor, or peripheral ends of sensory nerves, reduces 
reflex action, dilates the pupil, reduces the frequency of the 
pulse. It is of value as an anodyne in neuralgia, and in nervous 
insomnia, and, when combined with viburnum, to relieve dysme- 
norrhea. Locally it has been applied with success for toothache. 

RESORCIN. — Meta-dihydroxyl-benzol. A derivative of benzol. Sym- 
bol,— C 6 H, (OH), 

Characters. — White crystals resembling, but larger than those of 
benzoic acid. Solubility. — 1 in 2 of water; 1 in 20 of olive oil. 

Dose, 5 to 30 gr. 

5o 



586 appendix. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

This substance, originally introduced as an antipyretic, is now 
rarely employed for this purpose, as it is too depressant to the 
heart. A solution of resorcin in glycerin, i in 4, is excellent 
for removing epidermic scales in chronic skin diseases, and also 
for getting rid of the scurf in seborrhoea sicca of the scalp, 

SALOL.— Phenyl ether of salicylic acid. Symbol.— C 6 H 4 (OH)COOC 6 H 5 . 
Characters. — Small white crystals of a pale yellow tint. Tasteless. 
Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils, and glycerin. 
Dose, 4 to 30 gr. in cachets or suspended in milk. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

In the body, presumably in the small intestine, salol splits up 
into carbolic and salicylic acids, and the former renders the urine 
dark. In rheumatic fever it is efficacious on account of the 
salicylic acid it contains, but it has no advantage over salicin or 
salicylic acid, and the carboluria may be troublesome. 

It is an antiseptic, and since this decomposition takes place 
in an alkaline fluid, it has been used as an intestinal antiseptic in 
acute diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera and other diseases, also in 
affections of the bladder and urethra. It is a remedy of very 
great value in the treatment of typhoid fever, for by the active 
disinfection of the contents of the intestine and of the ulcerations, 
it favors their healing and prevents reinfection, thus lowering 
temperature, diminishing the liability to relapses and to permanent 
damage to tissues. It is the logical treatment, because it destroys 
the cause of the symptoms, at the point of origin. 

SANITAS. — The oleo resin common turpentine {see p. 393), obtained 
from Pinus sylvestris, the common Scotch fir, is allowed to oxidize in the air. 
Sanitas is the aqueous solution of this oxidized turpentine. Its active anti- 
septic principle is peroxide of hydrogen. It also contains a little thymol and 
a camphor. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is a pleasant smelling, non-poisonous liquid, which may be 
used as a domestic antiseptic and disinfectant, but it is not so 
powerful as carbolic acid or as corrosive sublimate. 



APPENDIX. 587 

SIMTJLO is the fruit of Capparis coriacea (Nat. Ord. Cappardacece). 
Peru. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is sometimes used for cases of epilepsy in which bromides 
disagree. A tincture (dose, 1 to 4 5) of it is prepared. 

SOMNAL.- Ethyl-chloral-urethrane. Symbol— CCLCH \ ^?* TT 
3 3 2 |NHCOOC 2 H. 

A liquid preparation which is a combination of chloral, alcohol, and urethane. 

Characters. — A colorless liquid, soluble in hot water or alcohol, with a 
faint odor and a very pungent taste. 

Dose, 30 m. 

Uses. 

Somnal acts like chloral, but is more pleasant; its effect is 
quick, without depressing after-effects either in the head or stom- 
ach. It should be well diluted, and administered in an alcoholic 
mixture. 

SOJA BEANS.— The beans of Soya hispida. 

Composition. — Soluble casein, 30; albumen, 0.5; insoluble casein, 7; 
fat, 18; cholesterin, 2; water, 10; dextrin, 10; starch, 5 ; cellulose, 5 ; ash, 
5 ; a powerful amylolytic ferment. These are powdered and made into a flour, 
from which bread and biscuits are prepared. The flour contains very little 
starch or sugar, sometimes not more than 2 or 4 per cent. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Bread and biscuits made from the flour are used in the treat- 
ment of diabetes as a substitute for gluten bread ; they are quite 
as efficacious in reducing the sugar passed in the urine, and many 
patients prefer the taste. 

SPARTEINE. — An alkaloid from the flowers of Sarothamnus Scoparius 
(Broom) . Europe. 

Broom contains two principles, Scoparin, symbol, C 21 H 22 O 10 , and an 
alkaloid Sparteine, symbol, C 15 H 26 N 2 . Sparteine was obtained by distillation 
from the mother waters of the Scoparin. 

Characters. — It is a colorless liquid, having a peculiar bitter taste, and 
all the properties of a volatile alkaloid. It is heavier than water, dissolving 
only slightly in it, but takes up some of it itself, becoming opalescent. It 



588 APPENDIX. 

readily neutralizes acids and forms crystallizable salts, which are extremely 
bitter. The sulphate occurs in greenish crystals, and is freely soluble in water. 
Dose, T ^ to 2 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Poisonous doses of sparteine cause, in the lower animals, 
tremblings, incoordination, increase of reflexes, chronic and tonic 
convulsions, embarrassment of the respiration, acceleration of the 
pulse, and enfeeblement of the heart, followed by enfeeblement 
of all of the functions, convulsions, and death from asphxia. It 
paralyzes the respiratory centers, and the motor centers of the 
spinal cord, but has a very feeble influence upon the muscles, les- 
sening, though not destroying, their excitability. According to 
Laborde, under the influence of this alkaloid there is a very great 
increase in the size and height of the cardiac wave. If the dose 
has been a small one, the pulse is at first accelerated, after large 
doses there is a slowing. The arterial pressure is not materially 
changed except unless the dose is toxic, when it falls. Small doses 
weaken, and large ones paralyze the peripheral pneumogastric 
nerve \ upon the vasomotor system, it appears to have no influence, 
unless in very large toxic doses, when it, perhaps, acts as a paralyz- 
ant. It does not represent entirely the diuretic action of scopa- 
rius. According to See. sparteine is of very great value in pro- 
ducing regularity in cases of irregular cardiac action. It acceler- 
ates the beats when in a weak, atonic state and has the great 
advantage of acting quickly, is not cumulative, but on the whole 
is probably inferior to digitalis in power, but is useful in uncom- 
pensated heart disease. 

TEREBENE.- Symbol.— C 10 H 16 . An isomer of oil of turpentine. 

Source. — Produced by the action of sulphuric acid on oil of turpentine 
and distillation. 

Characters. — Colorless, and with a pleasant pine-wood odor. It does 
not mix with water, but can easily be emulsified with tragacanth, or it may be 
taken on sugar. 

Dose, 5 to 30 m. 

Action and Therapeutics. 
Terebene is an excellent stimulant, disinfectant expectorant 
for chronic bronchitis. It may be used as an inhalation thus : — 



APPENDIX. 589 

Pure terebene, 40 TTU light carbonate of magnesium, 20 gr.; dis- 
tilled water, 1 5. Use a fluid drachm in a pint of water at 140 
F. in an apparatus so arranged that air can be drawn through it 
and inhaled. Or it may be given with other expectorants in a 
mixture ; many patients find five drops a few times a day on 
sugar quite sufficient to cure a slight winter cough. 

TERPIN HYDRATE. 
TERPIN HYDRATE.— Symbol.— C 10 H 18 (OH) 2 ,H 2 O. 
Source. — By interaction of oil of turpentine, alcohol and nitric acid. 
Characters. — In large, colorless, odorless, rhombic crystals, with a 
faint aromatic taste. It is soluble in 250 parts of cold water, 10 parts of 
alcohol. 

Dose, 2 to 10 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Terpin hydrate is an antiseptic, and will arrest the develop- 
ment of tubercular bacilli, increases the secretion of the mucous 
membrane, and the functional activity of the kidneys. It has been 
given as an expectorant in chronic and acute bronchitis, in 
whooping-cough, and rarely in the treatment of chronic nephritis. 

THALLIN. 

THALLIN. — Synonym. — Tetrahydroparachinanisol, C 9 H 10 N(OCH 3 ). 

Source. — By heating together para amidoanisol and acrolein in the pres- 
ence of an oxidizing agent. 

Characters. — It is an oily liquid which, when cooled, solidifies in yellow 
crystals. 

Action and Uses. 

It is used in medicine even in the form of a tartrate or sul- 
phate, which are rarely given internally, because they are poison- 
ous to the red blood corpuscles and to the nervous system. Their 
chief use is an injection for gonorrhoea in aqueous solution, 1 to 
120 or 60., or they can be used in a 2 per cent, solution as gela- 
tin bougies. 

THIOCAMF is a disinfectant used for fumigation. It is a liquid formed 
by the action of sulphurous acid, on camphor, which on exposure evolves the 
sulphur dioxide in steady fumes, and is stable and permanent when contained 
in closed vessels, but rapidly evolves the S0 2 on exposure. 



590 APPENDIX. 

TONGA. — A dark brown liquid obtained from the bark of several trees 
in Fiji, believed to be Premna taitensis and Raphidophora vitiensis 
Dose, i to 2 fl. dr. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

Tonga undoubtedly relieves some cases of intractable neural- 
gia, but unfortunately it is expensive. 

URETHANE. 

ETHYL-URETHANE.- Synonym. — Ethyl-carbamate. Symbol.— 
CO,NH 2 ,OC 2 H 5 . 

Source. — By the interaction of nitrate of urea and ethyl alcohol. 

Characters. — Colorless, columnar crystals, odorless and with a nitre-like 
look. 

Dose, 15 to 30 gr. 

Action and Uses. 

Urethane is used as a hypnotic, and is believed to provide 
a calm, natural sleep without disagreeable after effect. It was 
formerly more frequently employed. 

WOOD WOOL. — This is finely comminuted pine wood rendered 
antiseptic with corrosive sublimate. 

Action and Therapeutics. 

It is very absorbent, is used for dressing wounds, and is very 
popular in the form of diapers (sanitary towels) for use during 
menstruation or for uterine discharges, or after delivery. It is 
also used for infants' napkins. 



APPENDIX NO. III. 



THE PHARMACOPCEIAL VEGETABLE DRUGS ARRANGED 
ACCORDING TO THEIR NATURAL ORDERS. 



Nat. Order. 


Name of Plant. 


Part of Plant. 


Name of Drug. 


Algae . 


Chondrus crispus 
Apocynum cannabinum 


Plant 
Root 


Irish moss. 
Canadian hemp. 


Apocynaceae 




Asclepias tuberosa 


Root 


Pleurisy root. 


Aquifoliaceae 


Prinos verticillatus 


Bark 


Black alder. 


Aracese 


Acorus Calamus 
Aristolochia Serpentaria 


Rhizome 
Rhizome 


Sweet flag. 
Serpen tary. 


Aristolochiaceas... 




" reticulata 


u 


u 


Aurantiaceae 


Citrus vulgaris 


Rind of the fruit 


Bitter orange peel. 




" Aurantium 


ft u 


Sweet " 




" vulgaris and Aurantium 


Flowers 


Orange flowers. 




** Limonum 


Rind and juice 


Lemon. 




' ' Bergamia 


Oil from rind 


Bergamot. 


Berber idaceae 


Caulophylium thalictroides 


Rhizome and 


Blue Cohosh. 






rootlets 


May apple. 




Podophyllum peltatum 


Rhizome and 
rootlets 


(« 


Burseraceae 


Balsamodendron Myrrha 


Gum-resin from 
stem 


Myrrh. 




Caprifoliaceae 


Sambucus canadensis 


Flowers 


Elder. 




Viburnum prunifolium 


Bark 


Black haw. 


Celastrineae 


Euonymus atropurpureus 
Chenopodium ambrosioides 


Bark 


Euonymus 
American Worm- 


Chenopodiaceae.... 


Oil from fruit 




Var. anthelminticum 




seed. 


Compositae 


Anacyclus Pyrethrum 
Eupatorium perfoliatum 


Root 


Pellitory root. 
Thoroughwort. 




Leaves and tops 




Artemisia maritima Var. stech- 


Flower heads 


Santonica. 




maniana 








Calendula officinalis 


Herb 


Marigold. 




Anthemis nobilis 


Flowers 


Chamomile. 




Grindelia robusta 


Leaves and tops 


Grindelia 




Matricaria Chamomilla 


Flower-heads 


German Chamo- 
mile. 




Tanacetum vulgare 


Leaves and tops 


Tansy. 




Artemesia Absinthium 


W tt 


Wormwood. 




Taraxacum Dens-leonis 


Root 


Dandelion. 




Inula Helenium 


Root 


Elecampane. 




Arnica montana 


Flower heads, 


Arnica. 






rhizome, and 








rootlets 






Lactuca virosa 


Milk juice 


Lettuce. 




Erigeron canadense 


Oil from herb 


Fleabane 




Lappa officinalis 


Root 


Burdock. 


Coniferae 


Pinus australis 


Oil from exuded 
oleo-resin (tur- 


Oil of turpentine 
and resin. 








pentine), the 








residue is resin 






Pinus pinaster 
Abies balsamea 


i < 


n 




Oleo resin exud- 


Canada balsam. 






ing from bark 






" australis 


tt 


<< 




Abies excelsa 


Resin from stem 


Burgundy pitch. 



591 



592 



APPENDIX. 



Nat. Order. 


Name of Plant. 


Part of Plant. 


Name of Drug. 


Coniferae 


Abies canadensis 


Resin from stem 


Canada pitch. 




Pinus palustris 


Distillate from 
wood 


Tar. 




a tt 


Distillate from 


Oleum pini syl- 






leaves 


vestris, 




Thuja occidentalis 


Tops 


Arbor vitae. 




Juniperus communis 


Fruit 


Oil of juniper. 




" sabina 


Tops 


Savine 


Con volvulaceae. ... 


Convolvulus Scammonii 


Root 


Scammony. 




Exogonium Purga 


Tuberous root 


Jalap. 


Cornaceae 


Cornus florida 


Bark of root 


Dogwood. 


Cruciferae 


Sinapis alba 


Seed 


White mustard. 




" nigra 


" 


Black mustard. 


Cucurbitaceas 


Citrullus Colocynthis 


Fruit 


Colocynth. 




Bryonia alba 


Root 


Bryonia. 




" dioica 




" 




Cucurbita Pepo 


Seed 


Pumpkin seed. 




Ecballium Elaterium 


Fruit 


Elaterium. 


Cupuliferae 


Quercus alba 


Bark 


White oak. 




" lusitanica 


Parasitic excres- 
cences 


Nutgall. 




Castanea vesca 


Leaves 


Chestnut. 


Ericaceae 


Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi 


Leaves 


Uva ursi. 




Chimaphila umliellata 


Leaves 


Pipsissewa. 




Gaultheria procumbens 


Oil 


Salicylic acid. 


Erythroxylaceae.. 


Erythroxylon coca 


Leaves 


Coca. 


Euphorbiaceae 


Croton Eleuteria 


Bark 


Cascarilla. 




** Tiglium 


Oil of seed. 


Croton oil. 




Ricinus communis 


" 


Castor oil. 




Stilhngia sylvatica 


Root 


Queen's root. 




Mallotus philippinensis 


Glands and hairs 


Kamala. 


Filices 


Aspidum Filix-mas 


Rhizome 


Male fern. 


Fungi 


Claviceps purpurea 


Sclerotium 


Ergot 




Ustilago Maydis 


Smut 


Ustilago. 


Gentianaceae 


Gentiana lutea 


Root 


Gentian. 




Ophelia Chirata 


Plant 


Chirata. 


Geraniaceae 


Geranium maculatum 
Triticum vulgare 


Rhizome 
Seed 


Cranesbill. 
Starch. 


Graminaceae 




" repens 


Rhizome 


Couchgrass 


— 


Hordeum distichum 


Seed 


Pearl barley. 




Saccharum officinarum 


Cane 


Sugar and treacle. 


Granataceae 


Punica Granatum 


Bark of root 


Pomegranate. 


Guttiferae 


Garcinia Hanburii 


Gum resin 


Gamboge 


Hamamlaceae 


Liquidambar orientalis 


Balsam of bark 


Storax. 




Hamamelis virginica 


Leaves 


Hamamelis. 


Iridaceae 


Crocus sativus 
Iris versicolor 


Stigma 
Rhizome and 


Saffron. 
Blueflag. 








rootlet 




Juglandaceae 


Juglans cinerea 


Bark of root 


Butternut 


Labiatae 


Rosmarinus officinalis 
Origanum vulgare 


Oil of leaves 
Plant 


Oil of rosemary. 
Wild marjoram. 






Salvia officinalis 


Leaves 


Sage. 




Rubus villosus 


Bark of root 


Blackberry. 




" canadensis 


U <( 


it 




" trivialis 


I. K 


it 




*' idseus 


Fruit 


Raspberry. 




Scutellaria lateriflora 


Plant 


Scullcap. 




Lavandula vera 


Oil of flowers 


Oil of lavender. 




Hedeoma pulegoides 


Leaves and tops 


Pennyroyal. 






Herb 


Peppermint. 




" viridis 


Herb 


Spearmint. 




Melissa officinalis 


Leaves and tops 


Balm. 




Thymus vulgaris 


Stearopten from 

oil 
Leaves and tops 


Thymol. 




Marrubium vulgare 


Horehound. 



APPENDIX. 



593 



Nat. Order. 


Name of Plant. 


Part of Plant. 


Name of Drug. 


Lauraceae 


Cinnamomum zeylanicum 
" Camphora 


Bark of shoots 
Stearopten of 


Cinnamon. 
Camphor. 








wood 






Sassafras officinalis 


Root and pith 


Sassafras. 


Leguminosae 


Astragalus gummifer 


Gum from stem 


Tragacanth. 




Acacia Verek 


Gum from stem 


Gum arabic. 




Glycyrrhiza glabra 


Root 


Liquorice. 




Sarothamnus Scoparius 


Tops 


Broom. 




Pterocarpus santalinus 


Wood 


Red saunders. 




" Marsupium 


Juice from trunk 
Balsam from do. 


Kino. 




Myroxylon Pereirae 


Balsam of Peru. 




" toluifera 


IC 


Balsam of Tolu. 




Physostigma venenosum 


Seed 


Calabar bean. 




Andira Araroba 


Exudation of stem 


Goa powder. 




Cassia acutifolia 


Leaflets 


Senna. 




" elongata 


t< 


a 




Fistula 


Fruit 


Cassia. 




Haematoxylon campechianum 


Wood 


Logwood. 




Tamarindus indica 


Pulp of fruit 


Tamarind. 




Acacia Catechu 


Wood 


Catechu. 




Copaifera Langsdorffi 


Oleo-resin from 
trunk 


Copaiba. 


Lichenes 


Cetraria islandica 
Allium sativum 
Urginea Sciila 


Thallus 

Bulb 

Bulb 


Iceland Moss. 

Garlic. 

Squill. 


Liliaceae 






Aloe socotrina 


Juice of leaves 


Aloes. 


Linaceae 


Linum usitatissimum 
Lobelia inflata 
Strychnos nux-vomica 


Seeds and oil 
Leaves and tops 
Seed 


Linseed. 
Lobelia. 
Nux vomica. 


Lobeliaceae 


Loganiaceae 




Strychnos Ignatia 


Seed 


Ignatia. 




Spigelia marilandica 


Rhizome and 
rootlets 


Pink root. 




Gelsemium sempervireus 


Rhizome 


Gelsemium. 


Lycopodiaceae 


Lycopodium clavatum 


Sporules 


Lycopodium. 


Magnoliaceae 


JUicium anisatum 


Fruit 


Star-anise. 




Magnolia glauca 


Bark 


Magnolia. 




acuminata 


' 


•f 




tripetala 


(< 


ti 


Malvaceae 


Gossypium herbaceum 


Hairs of seeds and 


Cotton. 






bark of root 






Althaea officinalis 


Root 


Marshmallow. 


Melanthaceae 


Colchicum autumnale 


Seed and corm 


Colchicum. 




Veratrum viride 


Rhizome and root- 
lets. 


Veratrum viride. 




Asagraea officinalis 


Seed 


Veratrine. 


Meliaceae 


Melia Azedarach 
Jateorrhiza Calumba 


Bark of the root 
Root 


Azedarach. 
Columbo. 


Menispermaceae .. 




Chondrodendron tomentosum 


" 


Pareira. 




Menispermum canadense 


Rhizome and root- 


Canadian Moon 






lets 


seed 




Anamirta paniculata 


Glucoside from 
seeds 


Picrotoxin. 


Myristiceae 


Myristica fragrans 


Seed and fruit 


Nutmeg. 


Myrtaceae 


Eugenia caryophyllata 
Myrcia acris 


Flower bud 


Cloves. 




Oil from leaves 


Bay. 




Eugenia Pimenta 


Fruit 


Pimento. 




Melaleuca cajuputi 


Oil from leaves 


Cajuput oil. 




Eucalyptus globulus 


Leaves 


Eucalyptus. 




'• amygdalina 


<« 


« 


Oleaceae 


Olea europaea 


Oil from fruit 


Olive oil. 




Fraxinus Ornus 


Exudation of 
stem 


Manna. 


Orchidaceae 


Cypripedium pubescens 


Rhizome and 
rootlets 


Ladies' slipper. 




Vanilla planifolia 


Fruit 


Vanilla. 



594 



APPENDIX. 



Nat. Order. 


Name of Plant. 


Part of Plant. 


Name of Drug. 


Papaveraceae 


Papaver somniferum 


Juice from cap- 
sules 
Plant 


Opium. 




Chelidonium majus 


Celandine. 




Sanguinaria canadensis 


Rhizome 


Bloodroot. 


Pedalacese 


Sesamum indicum 


Oil of seed 


Benne oil. 


Piperaceae 


Piper nigrum 
Cubeba officinalis 


Fruit 


Black pepper. 
Cubeb. 




ti 




Artanthe elongata 


Leaves 


Matico. 


Phytolaccaceae.... 


Phytolaceae decandra 


Root and fruit. 


Poke. 


Polygalaeae 


Polygala Senega 
Rumex crispus 


Root 


Senega. 
Yellow Dock. 




Root 




Krameria triandra 


n 


Rhatany. 




" tormentosa 


u 


u 




Rheum, officinale 


it 


Rhubarb. 


Ranunculaceae 


Aconitum napellus 
Anemone Pulsatilla 


Root 


Aconite 




Herb 


Pulsatilla 




pratensis 


" 


ti 




patens 


it 


tt 


; 


Delphinium Staphisagria 


Seed 


Stavesacre. 




Cimicifuga racemosa 


Rhizome and root- 
lets 
Rhizome 


Cimicifuga 


i 


Hydrastis canadensis 
Rhamnus frangula 


Hydrastis. 


Rhamnaceae 


Bark 


Frangula. 


Rosaceae 


Rosa gallica 
" centifolia 


Petals 


Red rose petals. 
Cabbage rose pe- 




** 


■ 






tals. 


7 


" damascena 


Flowers 


*■ Rose. 




Cydonia vulgaris 


Seed 


Quince seed. 


' 


Amygdalus communis var. 


Seed 


Sweet almond. 


: 


dulcis 








var. 


<( 


Bitter almond. 


■ 


amara 








Brayera anthelmintica 


Female inflores- 


Kooso. 






cence 






Prunus domestica 


Fruit 


Prune. 




serotina 


Bark 


Wild cherry. 




Quillaia saponaria 
Coffea arabica 


Bark 


Soap bark. 
Caffeine. 


Rubiaceae 


Alkaloid from 






beans 




: 


Cinchona succirubra 


Bark 


Cinchona bark. 




" Calisaya 


tt 


Calisaya bark. 




Cephaelis Ipecacuanha 


Root 


Ipecacuanha. 


Rutaceae 


Xantholylum fraxineum 
Barosma betulina 


Bark 


Prickly ash. 
Buchu. 




Leaves 




crenata 


(> 


u 




" serratifolia 


ft 


iC 




Ruta graveolens 


Oil from plant. 


Oil of rue. 




Pilocarpus pennatifolius 


Leaflets 


Jaborandi. 
Salicin. 


Salicaceae 


Salix Helix 


Glucoside of bark 




Alba 


Bark 


Willow. 


Santalaceae 


Santalum album 
Paullinia sorbilis 


Oil of wood 
Seed 


Sandalwood. 
Guarana. 


Sapindaceae 


Sapotaceae 


Isonandra Gutta 


Concrete juice 


Gutta percha. 
Digitalis. 
Culver's physic. 


Scrophulariaceae.. 


Digitalis purpurea 


Leaves 




Leptandra Virginica 


Rhizome and 






rootlets 




Simarubaceae 


Picraena excelsa 


Wood 


Quassia. 


Smilaceae 


Smilax officinalis 


Root 


Sarsaparilla. 




11 medica 


« 


« 


Solanaceae 


Capsicum fastigiatum 
Atropa Belladonna 


Fruit 


Capsicum. 
Belladonna. 




Root and leaves 




Datura Stramonium 


Seed and leaves 


Stramonium. 




Hyoscyamus niger 


Leaves 


Henbane. 




Solanum Dulcamara 


Branches 


Bitterweed. 




Nicotina Tabacum 


Leaves 


Tobacco. 



APPENDIX. 



595 



Nat. Order. 


Name of Plant. 


Part of Plant. 


Name of Drug. 


Sterculiaceae 


Theobroma Cacao 


Oil from seed 


Oil of theobroma. 


Styraceae 


Styrax Benzoin 


Resin from bark 


Benzoin. 


Terebinthacese 


Pistacia Lentiscus 


Resinous exuda- 
tion 


Mastic. 




Rhus glabra 


Fruit 


Rhus glabra. 




Rhus Toxicodendron 


Fresh leaves 


Rhus Toxicoden- 
dron. 


Ternstraemiacese. . 


Camellia Thea 


Alkaloid from 
leaves 


Caffeine. 


Thymelaceae 


Daphne Mezereum 


Bark 


Mezereon. 


Umbelliferae 


Conium maculatum 


Fruit 


Hemlock. 




Pimpinella Anisum 


(i 


Anise. 




Ferula Narthex 


Gum resin from 


Asafetida. 






root 






" scorodosma 


(< 


u 


. 


" galbaniflua 


Gum resin 


Galbanum 




Ferula sumbul 


Root 


Sumbul. 




Dorema Ammoniacum 


Gum - resin from 
stem. 


Ammoniac. 




Coriander sa ivum 


«( 


Coriander. 




Foeniculum vulgare 


t< 


Fennel. 




Carum Carvi 


u 


Caraway. 


Urticaceae .~ 


Humulus lupulus 


Strobiles 


Hops. 




Ficus Carica 


Fruit 


Fig. 




Ulmus fulva 


Inner bark 


Slippery elm. 




Cannabis sativa 


Plant 


American canna- 
bis. 
Cannabis indica. 




Cannabis sativa 


Tops 


Valerianaceae 


Valeriana officinalis 


Rhizome and 
rootlet. 


Valerian. 


Violaceae 


Viola tricolor 


Herb 


Pansy 


Zingiberaceae 


Eletaria cardamomum 


Fruit 


Cardamom. 




Zingiber officinale 


Rhizome 


Ginger. 


Zygophy lleae 


Guaiacum officinale 


Wood 


Guaiacum. 




" sanctum 


M 


u 



APPENDIX No. IV. 

A LIST OF LATIN PHRASES COMMONLY USED IN 
THE WRITING OF PRESCRIPTIONS. 



aa. 

Ad. 

Ad lib. 

Ad us. 

JEq. 

Alt. hor. 

Ampul. 

Aq. 

Aq. bull. 

Aq. dest. 

Aq ferv. 

Aq. fluv. 

Aq. font. 

Aq. pluv. 

Bib. 

Bis ind. 

Bis in 7 d. 

Bol. 

C. 

Cap. 

Cap. 

Chart. 

Chartul. 

Col. 

C. m. 

C. m. s. 

C. n. 

Cochl. 

Cochl. ampl. 

Cochl. infant. 

Cochl. mag. 

Cochl. mod. 

Cochl. parv. 

Contin. 

Cuj. 

C. v. 
Cyath. 
Cyath. vinos. 
D. 

d. 

D. d. in d. 
Det. 

Dieb. alt. 
Dim. 
Div. 

D. in p. ae. 
Exhib. 
F. or ft. 
F. h. 
F. m. 
F. pil. 
Form. 
F. s. a. 
Gtt 
Habt. 



Ana 

Adde _ 

Ad libitum 

Ad usum 

^Equates 

Alternis noris 

Ampulla 

Aqua 

Aqua bulliens 

Aqua destillata 

Aqua fervens 

Aqua fluviatilis 

Aqua fontalis 

Aqua pluvialis 

Bibe 

Bis indies 

Bis in septem diebus 

Bolus 

Cum 

Capiat 

Capsula 

Charta 

Chartula 

Cola 

Cras mane 

Cras mane sumendus 

Cras nocte 

Cochleare 

Cochleare amplum 

Cochleare infantis 

Cochleare magnum 

Cochleare modicum 

Cochleare parvum 

Continueter 

Cuj us 

Cras vespere 

Cyathus 

Cyathus vinosus 

Dosis 

Da 

De die in diem 

Detur. 

Diebus alternis 

Dimidius 

Divide 

Divide in partes aequales 

Exhibiatur 

Fiat 

Fiat haustus 

Fiat mistura 

Fiat pilula 

Formula 

Fac secundem artem 

Gutta or guttse 

Habeat 



of each. 

add. 

to the desired amount. 

according to custom. 

equal. 

every other hour. 

a large bottle. 

water. 

boiling water. 

distilled water. 

hot water. 

river water. 

spring water. 

rain water. 

drink. 

twice a day. 

twice a week. 

a large pill. 

with. 

let him take. 

a capsule. 

a paper. 

a small paper. 

strain. 

to-morrow morning. 

to be taken to-morrow morning. 

to morrow night. 

spoonful. 

a table-spoonful. 

a teaspoonful. 

a table-spoonful. 

a dessert-spoonful. 

a teaspoonful. 

let it be continued. 

of which. 

to-morrow evening. 

a glassful. 

a wine glassful. 

a dose. 

give. 

from day to day. 

let it be given. 

on alternate days. 

one half. 

divide. 

divide into equal parts. 

let it be given 

let it be made. 

make a draught. 

make a mixture. 

make a pill. 

a prescription. 

make according to art. 

drop or drops. 

let him have. 

597 



59« 



8 


APPENDIX. 




Hor. intermed. 


Horis intermediis 


at intermediate hours. 


H. s. 


Hora somni 


at bedtime. 


Ind. 


Indies 


daily. 


Lat. Dol. 


Lateri dolenti 


to the painful' side. 


Mic. pan. 


Mica panis 


bread crumb. 


Mit. 


Mitte 


send. 


Mod. prsescript. 


Modo praescripto 


in the manner directed. 


Non repetat. 


Non repetatur 


let it not be repeated. 


O. m. 


Omni mane 


every morning. 


Omn. bih. 


Omni bihora 


every two hours. 


Omn. hor. 


Omni hora 


every hour. 


O. n. 


Omni nocte 


every night. 


P. or pt. 


Perstetur 


continue. 


Part. aeq. 


Partes aequales 


equal parts. 


Penecil cam. 


Penicillum camelinum 


a camel's-hair pencil. 


Pil. 


Pilula. 


a pill. 


P. r. n. 


Pro re natS. 


when required. 


at 


Quantum libet 


as much as is requisite. 


Quantum sufficit 


a sufficient quantity. 


Q.v. 


Quantum volueris 


at will. 


R. 


Recipe 


take. 


Rep. 


Repetatur 


let it be repeated. 


Sing. 


Singulorum 


of each. 


Si op. sit. 


Si opus sit 


if necessary. 


Sum. 


Sumat or sumendum 


let him take or let it be taken 


T. d. 


Ter in die 


three times a day. 


Ter. 


Tere 


Rub. 



INDEX. 



Abbreviations, 37. 

Absinthium, 423. 

Abstracta, 17. 

Acacia, 472. 

Accelerator nerve, action 

on, 49 
Accommodation, 100. 
Aceta, 17. 
Acetanilide, 534. 
Acetic ether, 243. 
Acids, 213. 
Acidum aceticum, 214. 
— arseniosum, 184. 
— benzoicum, 500. 
— boricum, 222. 
— carbolicum, 250. 
— chromicum, 193. 
— chrysophanicum, 372. 
— citricum, 214. 
— gallicum, 458. 
— hydrobromicum, 209. 
— hydrochloricum, 214. 
— hydrocyanicum, 258. 
— lacticum, 216. 
— meconicum, 534. 
— nitricum, 214. 
— oleicum, 469. 
— phosphoricum, 194. 
— pyrogallicum, 565. 
— salicylicum, 360. 
— sulphuricum, 213. 
— sulphurosum, 220. 
— tannicum, 455. 
— tartaricum, 215. 
— valerianicum, 426. 
Aconite, 328. 
Aconitina, 535. 
Adeps, 525. 
— benzoinatus, 500. 
— lanae, 535. 
hydrosus, 535. 



Adjuvans, 33. 

Administration of drugs, 30. 

iEsculap, 82. 

iEther, 240. 

— aceticus, 243. 

Air, 64. 

Albumen, 536. 

Alcohol, 225. 

— amylicum, 536. 

— tertiary Amyl, 566. 

Alkaline earths, 131. 

— metals, 108. 

Alkaloids, 11. 

Allium, 343. 

Allyl 343- 

Almond, 470. 

Aloe, 377. 

Aloin, 536. 

Alterative, 103. 

Althaea, 469. 

Alum, 138. 

Aluminium, 138. 

Ammoniacum, 431. 

Ammonii benzoas, 500. 

— bromidum, 205, 

— valerianas, 427. 

Ammonio-mercuric chloride, 

565. 
Ammonium, 125. 
Amygdala, 470. 
Amyl colloid, 566. 
Amyl nitrite, 244. 
Amylene hydrate, 566. 
Amylic alcohol, 536. 
Amylum, 512. 
Anaesthetics, general, 95. 
— local, 89. 
Anaphrodisiacs, 101. 
Anemonin, 336. 
Anethum, 537. 
Angustura Bark, 542. 



Anhidrotics, 55. 
Anise, 422. 
Anodynes, local, 89. 
Anthelmintics, 41. 
Anthemis, 451. 
Anticholagogues, 86. 
Antiemetics, 78. 
Antifebrin, 534. 
Antigalactagogues, 102. 
Antihydrotics, 55. 
Antimony, 189. 
Antiparasitics, 41. 
Antiperiodics, 42. 
Antipyretics, 61. 
Antipyrin, 537. 
Antiseptics, 39. 
Antisialogogues, 70. 
Antispasmodics, 67. 
Antizymotics, 40. 
Aphrodisiacs, 101. 
Apocynum, 485. 
Apomorphinas hydrochloras, 

275. 
Aqua, 104. 
— destillata, 104. 
Aquae, 17. 
Arabin, 13. 
Arbor Vitae, 520. 
Argentum, 144. 
Aristol, 566. 
Aonorica, 538. 
Arnica, 406. 
Arsenic, 184. 
Asafoetida, 428. 
Asclepias, 346. 
Aseptol, 567. 
Aspidium, 477. m 
Astringents, 53. 
— intestinal, 83. 
Atropa belladonna, 278. 
Atropina, 279. 

599 



6oo 



INDEX. 



Atropinse sulphas, 280. 
Aurantii cortex, 453. 
— florum, 453. 
— fructus, 453. 
Aurum, 172. 
Azedarach, 482. 

Bael fruit, 539. 

Balm, 505. 

Balsam of Peru, 433. 

— of Tolu, 434. 

Balsams, 13. 

Barium, 539. 

— chloride of, 539. 

Basic gallate of bismuth, 573. 

Basis, 33. 

Bassorin, 13. 

Baths, 105. ■ 

Battley's solution, 581. 

Bebeeru bark, 549 

Beberine sulphate, 549. 

Bela, 539. 

Belladonna, 278. 

Benne oil, 508. 

Benzin, 511. 

Benzosol, 567. 

Benzoyl-guaiacol, 567. 

Benzoyl-sulphonic-imide, 

558. 
Benzoin, 500. 
Berberine, 365. 
Betol, 567. 
Bile, action on, 84. 
Bismuth, 152. 
— basic gallate of, 573. 
— salicylate of, 568. 
Bisulphide of carbon, 512. 
Bitters, 445. 
Bitter sweet, 520. 
Black alder, 464. 
—berry, 463. 
— draught, 376. 
—drop, 581. 
—haw, 521. 
— wash, 180. 
Bladder, action of drugs on, 

60. 
Bleaching powder, 198. 
Blue flag, 390. 
Blue ointment, 173. 
—pill, 173. 
Boluses, 18. 



Boneset, 369. 
Borax, 222. 
Boro-glyceride, 222. 
Bougies, 28. 
Brain, action on, 92. 
Brandy, 225. 
Brayera, 478. 
Bromides, 205. 
Bromide of ethyl, 574. 
Bromine, 204. 
Bromoform, 568. 
Bronchial secretion, 66. 
— spasm, 67. 
Broom, 485. 
Brucine, 296. 
Bryonia, 383. 
Buchu, 436. 
Buckthorn, 377. 
Burdock, 518. 
Burgundy pitch, 398. 
Burnett's fluid, 147. 
Butternut, 374. 
Butyl-chloral hydras, 540 
Byne, 466. 

Cacao butter, 510 
Cactus, 569. 
Cachets, 28. 
Caffeinae citras, 540. 
Caffeine, 293. 
Cajuput oil, 403. 
Calabar bean, 302. 
Calamus, 447. 
Calcium, 131. 
— hypophosphite, 196. 
Calomel, 174. 
Calumba, 445. 
Calx, 133. 
— chlorata, 198. 
— sulphurata, 134. 
Cambogia, 387. 
Camphor, 494. 
— monobromata, 495. 
Canada balsam, 400. 
—pitch, 399. 
Canella, 541. 
Cannabis indica, 291. 
— Americana, 292. 
Cantharides, 530. 
Capsicum, 415. 
Capsules, 28. 
Caraway, 424. 



Caraway, oil of, 424. 
Carbolic acid, 250. 
Carbon, 223. 

Carbonei bisulphidum, 512. 
Cardamom, 417. 
Carlsbad water, 122. 
Carminative tincture, 417. 
Carminatives, 75. 
Carron oil. 133. 
Carum, 424. 
Caruol, 421. 
Caryophyllus, 408. 
Casca Bark, 574. 
Cascara Sagrada, 541. 
Cascarilla, 449. 
Cassia Fistula, 416. 
Castanea, 346. 
Castor oil, 370. 
Cataplasmata, 29. 
Catechu, 458. 
Cathartic acid, 375. 
Cathartics, 81. 
Caulophyllum, 491. 
Caustics, 51. 
Calendula, 519. 
Celandine, 519. 
Cera alba, 530. 

— flava, 529. 
Cerasin, 13. 
Cerata, 18. 

Cerebral depressants, 94. 

— stimulants, 95. 
Cereus grandiflorus, 569. 
Cerevisiae fermentum, 563. 
Cerium, 138. 
Cetaceum, 526. 
Cetraria, 476. 
Cevadilla, 334. 

Chalk, prepared, 131. 
Chamomile, 451. 
— German, 451. 

— oil of, 550. 
Charcoal, 223. 
Charta, 18. 
Chelidonium. 519 
Chemical constitution, 38. 
Chenopodium, 482. 
Cherry laurel, 547. 
Chestnut, 346. 
Chimaphila, 521. 
Chinoidinum, 353. 
Chirata, 449. 



INDEX. 



60 1 



Chittem bark, 541. 
Chloral, 247. 
Chloralamide, 569. 
Chloralformamide, 569. 
Chloric ether, 235. 
Chlorinated Chloride of 
Ethyl 575.. 

— lime, 198. 

— soda, 199. 
Chlorine, 195. 
Chlorodyne, 551. 
Chloroform, 254. 
Cholagogues, 85. 
Chondrus, 467. 
Chromium, 193. 
Chrysarobin, 372, 502. 
Churrus, 292. 
Cigarettes, 29. 
Ciliary muscle, 100. 
Cimicifuga, 451. 
Cinchona, 347. 

— flava, 349. 

— rubra, 350. 

Cinchonidine, 352. 

Cinchonine, 352. 

Cinchonism, 356. 

Cinnamon, 413. 

Citrine ointment, 176. 

Cloves, 408. 

Clysters, 29. 

Coca, 312. 

Cocoa, Brazilian, 296. 

Cocainse hydrochloras, 542. 

Cocillana, 570. 

Coccus, 550. 

Cochineal, 530. 

Codeina, 274. 

Cod-liver oil, 527. 

Coffee, 293. 

Colchicum, 441. 

Cold pack, 105. 

Collodia, 18. 

Collodium, 509. 

Collunaria, 29. 

Colly ria, 29. 

Colocynth, 385. 

Colophony, 399. 

Condal, 122. 

Condy's fluid, 172. 

Confectiones, 18. 

Conium, 307. 

Conine, 308. 

51 



Conserves, 18. 

Constitu.ns, 33. 

Convallaria majalis, 571. 

Copaiba, 437. 

Copper, 151. 

Coriander, 423. 

Cornus, 359. 

Corrigens, 33. 

Corrosive sublimate, 174. 

Coster's paste, 201. 

Coto, 571. 

Cotton, 509. 

— seed oil, 5 to. 

Couch grass, 486. 

Counter-irritant, 51. 

Cranesbill, 463. 

Cream of tartar, 113. 

Creasote, 254. 

Cremora, 29. 

Creolin, 572. 

Creta prseparata, 13 . 

Crocus, 508. 

Croton chloral hydrate, 540. 
Croton oil, 383. 
Cubeba, 440. 
Cuca, 312. 
Culver's root, 389. 
Cumulative action, 33. 
Cuprum, 151. 
Curare, 573. 
Curd soap, 559. 
Cusparia, 542. 
Cusso, 478. 
Cydonium, 473. 
Cypripedium, 428. 

Damask rose, 504. 
Dandelion root, 452. 
Daturine, 288. 
Decocta, 18 
Deliriants, 93. 
Delphine, 483. 
Dermatol, 573. 
Demulcents, 54. 
Deodorants, 40. 
Diachylon ointment, 140. 
Dialysed iron, 577. 
Dialysis, 14. 
Diaphoretics, 54. 
Diaphtherin, 582. 
Diethyl-sulphon-dimethyl- 
methane, 562. 



Digestion, action on, 68. 
Digitalin, 319. 
Digitalis, 365. 
Di^itoxin, 319. 

Dill, 557. 

Di methy 1-ethyl-carbi nol,s66. 

Direct action, 38. 

Disinfectants, 39. 

Dispermine, 585. 

Dissolution, law of, 92. 

Di-thymol-di-iodide, 566. 

Diuretics, 57. 

Diuretin, 574. 

Dogwood, 359. 

Domestic measures, 16. 

Donovan's solution, 173. 

Doses, 31. 

Dover's powder, 261. 

Drastics, 81. 

Drops, 15. 

Drugs, administration of, 30. 

Duboisinse sulphas, 574. 

Dulcamara, 530. 

Dusart's syrup, 170. 

Dynamite, 550. 

Ears, action on, 100 
Easton's syrup, 170. 
Ecballii fructus, 386. 
Ecbolics, 101. 
Egg albumen, 536. 
Elaeoptenes, 12. 
Elaterinum, 386. 
Elaterium, 386. 
Elder, 425. 
Elecampane, 347. 
Electuaries, 18. 
Elemi, 543. 
Elixirs, 19. 
Elutriation, 13. 
Emetics, 76. 
Emetine, 340. 
Emmenagogues, 102. 
Emollients, 53, 
Empirical therapeutics, 10. 
Emplastra, 19. 
Emulsiones, 29. 
Emulsions, 13. 
Enemata, 29, 82. 
Epsom salts, 135. 
Ergot, 487. 
Erythrophloeum, 574. 



60 2 



INDEX. 



Erythroxyion, 312. 


Galactagogubs, 102. 


Haemostatics, 53. 


Escharotics, 51. 


Galbanum, 430. 


Hamamelis, 462. 


Eserine, 302. 


Gall, 455. 


Hard soap, 465. 


Essentia, 29. 


Gamboge, 387. 


Haschisch, 292. 


Essential oils, 12. 


Gargarismata, 29. 


Haustus, 29 


Ether, 240. 


Garlic, 343. 


Heart, action on, 46. 


— acetic, 243. 


Gastric antiseptics, 73. 


Hedeoma, 425. 


— Bromatus, 271. 


— juice, action on, 71. 


Helenin, 347. 


Ethyl Bromide, 574. 


— sedatives, 75 


Hellebore, American, 332. 


— carbamate, 590. 


Gastro-intestinal irritants, 74. 


Hemidesmus. 545. 


— chlorinated chloride, 575. 


Gaultheria, 365. 


Hemlock pitch, 399. 


Ethylenimine, 585. 


Gelatine, 543. 


Hemp, Indian, 291. 


Eucalyptol, 404. 


Gelsemium, 306. 


— Canadian, 485. 


Eucalyptus, 403. 


General therapeutics, 10. 


Henbane, 289. 


—gum, 543. 


Generation, action on, 101. 


Hips, 558. 


Eugenol, 506. 


Gentian, 447. 


Hirudo, 545. 


Euonymus, 391. 


Geranium, 463. 


Hoffman's anodyne, 241. 


Euonymin, 391. 


Ginger, 416. 


Homatropine, hydrobrom- 


Eupatorium, 369. 


Glonoin, 550. 


ate 546. 


Europhen, 575. 


Glucosides, n. 


Honey, 529. 


Exalgine, 575. 


Glucusimide, 558. 


Hops, 276. 


Expectorants, 67. 


Glusidum, 558. 


Hordeum, decorticatum, 547. 


Extracta, 19. 


Glycerita, 22, 524. 


Horehound, 486. 


— fluida, 20. 


Glycerin, 467. 


Horseradish, 538. 


Extractum carnis, 576. 


Glycerine, constitution, 11. 


Hot pack, 107. 


Eye, action on, 98. 


Glycogenic function, 86. 


Huile de Cade, 550. 




Glycyrrhiza, 474. 


Humulus, 276. 


Farina lini, 532. 


Goa powder, 502. 


Hunyadi Janos, 82, 122. 


— tritici, 544. 


Gold, 172. 


Hydragogues, 82. 


Fats, definition of, 12. 


Gossypium, 509. 


Hydrargyrum, 173. 


Fel bovis, 523. 


— radicis cortex, 490. 


Hydrastis, 365. 


Fennel, 423. 


Granatum, 478. 


Hydrocyanic acid, 258. 


Ferri arsenias, 544. 


Granules, 29. 


Hydrogen peroxide, 478. 


— valerianas, 427. 


Gray powder, 173. 


Hyoscine, 289. 


Ferrum, 154. 


Gregory's powder, 373. 


Hyoscyamine, 289. 


— dialysatum, 577. 


Griffith's mixture, 155. 


— sulphate, 290. 


Ficus, 367. 


Grindelia, 345 


Hyoscyamus, 289. 


Fig, 367. 


Guaiacol, 577. 


Hypnotics, 94, 272. 


Filix mas, 477. 


Guaiacum, 513. 


Hypodermic injections, 29. 


Fir-wool oil, 557. 


—resin, 514. 


Hypophosphites, 196. 


Fixed oils, 11. 


Guarana, 296. 




Flax seed, 475. 


Gum acacia, 472. 


Ice-bags, 106 


Flour, S44- 


Gum resins, 13. 


Ice poultices, 106. 


Fceniculum, 423. 


Gums, 13. 


Iceland moss, 476. 


Fomenta, 29. 


Gun cotton, 509. 


Ichthyocolla, 524. 


Fox glove, 319. 


Gunjah, 292. 


Ichthyol, 578. 


Fowler's solution, 184. 


Guttae, 29. 


Ignatia, 302. 


Frangula, 377. 


Gutta-percha, 511. 


Illicium, 422. 


Frankincense, 563. 




Incompatibility, chemical, 


Franz, Joseph, 122. 


H^matinics, 43. 


33- 


Fredrichshall, 82, 122. 


— indirect, 44. 


— physical, 35. 


Fusil oil, 536. 


Hasmatoxylon, 460. 


Indian sarsaparilla, 545. 



INDEX. 



603 



Indirect action, 38. 
Infusa, 22. 
Inhalations, 31, 64. 
Injectiones, 29. 
lnsufflationes, 29. 
Intestinal antiseptics, 83. 
— astringents, 83. 
Intestines, action on, 79. 
Intra-ocular tension, 100. 
Inula, 347. 
Iodides, 202. 
Iodine, 199. 
Iodoform, 256. 
Iodol, 578. 
Ipecacuanha, 339. 
Iris, 390. 
Irish Moss, 467. 
Iridin, 390. 
Iron, 154. 
Irritants, 50. 
Isinglass, 524. 

Isobutyl-ortho-cresol-iodide, 
575- 

Jaborandi, 315. 
Jalap, 381. 

Jamaica dogwood, 585. 
James's powder, 189. 
Jarish's ointment, 565. 
Jasmine, 306. 
Jervine, 334. 
Juglans, 374. 
Juices, 33. 
Juniperus, 435. 
Juniper tar oil, 550. 

Kamala., 479. 
Kino, 460. 
Kissingen, 122. 
Kola nut, 293. 
Kombe poison, 560. 
Kousso, 478. 
Krameria, 459. 

Labarraque's solution, 

199. 
Lac, 579. 
Lactucarium, 277. 
Ladies' slipper, 428. 
Lamellae, 29. 
Lanoline, 535. 
Lanolinum, 29. 



Lapis divinus, 152. 
Lappa, 518. 
Larch bark, 537. 
Lard, 525. 

— oil, 526. 

Latin phrases, 596. 
Laudanum, 264. 
Laurocerasus, 547. 
Lavender, 418. 
Laxatives, 80. 
Lead, 140 
Leech, 545. 
Leiter's coils, 106. 
Lemon, 498. 
Leptandra, 389. 
Lettuce, 277. 
Levigation, 13. 
Lignum vitae, 513. 
Lily of the Valley, 571. 
Lime, 131. 
Limonis cortex, 498. 

— succus, 499. 
Linctus, 29. 
Linum, 475. 
Linimenta, 21. 
Linseed, 475. 
Liqueurs, 226. 

Liquor carbonis detergens, 

398. 
Liquores, 22 
Liquorice, 474 
Lithontriptics, 58. 
Lithia water, Londonderry, 

*3*. 

Lithium, 130. 

Li thii Salicylate, 361. 

Liver, action on, 84. 

Lixiviation, 14. 

Lobelia, 343. 

Lobeline, 343. 

Local action, 38. 

Logwood, 460. 

Londonderry Lithia Water, 

*3i- 
Lotiones, 29. 
Lozenges, 28. 
Lupulinu 111,276. 
Lupulus, 276. 
Lycopodium, 513. 
Lye, 14. 
Lysol, 579. 



Mace, 413. 
Maceration, 14. 
Magnesium, 135. 
Magnolia, 359. 
Male fern, 477. 
Malt, 466. 
Manganese, 170. 
Manganum, 170. 
Manila elemi, 543. 
Manna, 368. 
Marienbad, 122. 
Marigold, 519. 
Marjoram, 507. 
Marrubium, 86. 
Marshmaliow, 469. 
Massae, 22. 
Mastiche, 510. 
Mate, 293. 
Materia medica, 9. 
Matico, 442. 
Matricaria, 451. 
Measures, 15. 

— domestic, 16. 
Mel, 529. 
Mella, 22. 
Melissa, 505. 
Menispermum, 517. 
Mentha piperita, 420. 

— viridis, 421. 
Menthol, 548. 
Mercury, 173. 

— administration of, 182. 
Metabolism, action on, 103. 
Meta - dihydroxyl - benzol, 

585. 
Methyl acetanilide, 575. 

— pyrocatechin, 577. 
Methylene blue, 579. 
Metrical system, 15. 
Mezereum, 407. 
Milk, 579. 

•*— action on, 102. 

— • artificial human, 579. 

— drugs excreted in, 102. 

— peptonized, 580. 
Mindererus' spirit, 129. 
Misturae, 22. 
Mollinum, 30. 
Monk's-hood, 328. 
Monobromethane, 574. 
Monsel's solution, 158. 
Morus, 548. 



6 04 



INDEX. 



Morphinae acetas, 265. 

— hydrochloras, 265. 

— sulphas, 265. 
Moschus, 522. 
Motor centers, 93. 

— nerves, 88. 
Mucilagines, 22. 
Mulberry juice, 548. 
Muscles, action on, 87. 
Musk, 522. 
Mustard, 400. 
Mydriatics, 99. 
Myotics, 100 
Myristica, 412. 
Myrrh, 432. 

Naphthaline, 581. 
Naphthol, 567, 581. 
Naphthosalol, 567. 
Narceine, 582 
Narcotics, 95. 
Natural orders, 591. 
Nebulae, 30. 
Nectandra, 549. 
Nerves, action on, 88. 
Neuritis, drugs causing, 90. 
Neutral principles, (gluco- 

sides), 11. 
Nicotine, 311. 

Night blooming cereus, 569. 
Nitrite of amyl, 244. 
Nitrites, 243. 
Nitro-glycerin, 550. 
Nutgall, 455. 
Nutmeg, 442. 
Nux vomica, 296. 

Oil of allspice, 411. 

— almonds, 471. 

— amber, 418. 

— anise, 422. 

— bay, 507. 

— bergamot, 420. 
—cade, 550. 

— cajuput, 403. 

— cloves, 409. 

— copaiba, 438. 

— coriander, 423. 

— cubeb, 446. 

— diH, 537- 

— erigeron, 396. 

— juniper, 435. 



Oil lavender, 419. 
flowers 419. 

— lemon, 498. 

— mustard, 401. 

— peppermint, 420. 

— rosemary, 406. 

— rue, 441. 

— sandal-wood, 441. 

— sassafras, 519. 

— savine, 443. 

— spearmint 421. 

— tar, 397. 

— theobroma, 510. 

— thyme, 497. 

— turpentine, 393. 
Oils, fixed, 11. 

— volatile, 12. 
Ointments, 28. 
Olea, 22. 
Oleata, 22. 
Oleic acid, 469. 
Oleo-resina cubebae, 440. 
Oleo-resins, 13. 
Oleum aethereum, 241. 

— amygdalae expressum, 

471. 

— anethi, 537. 

— anisi, 422. 

— anthemidis, 550. 

— bergamii, 420. 

— cadinum, 550. 

— cajuputi, 403. 

— carui, 424. 

— caryophylli, 407. 

— chenopodii, 482. 

— cinnamomi, 434. 

— copaibae, 438. 

— coriandri, 423. 

— cubebae, 440. 

— erigerontis, 396. 

— eucalypti, 404. 

— foeniculi, 424. 

— gaultheriae, 365. 

— gossypii seminis, 510. 

— hedeomae, 425. 

— juniperi, 435. 

— lavandulae, 419. 

— limonis, 498. 

— lini, 475. 

— menthae piperitae, 420. 
Oleum menthae viridis, 421. 

— morrhuae, 527. 



Oleum myricae, 507. 

— myristicae, 413. 
expressum, 551. 

— olivae, 465. 

— picis liquidae, 397. 

— pimentse, 411. 

— pini sylvestris, 557. 

— ricini, 370. 

— rosae, 505. 

— rosmarini, 406. 

— rutae, 444. 

— sabinae, 443. 

— santali, 441. 

— sassafras, 519. 

— sesami, 508. 

— sinapis volatile, 401. 

— succini, 418. 

— terebinthmae, 393. 

— theobromae, 510. 

— thy mi, 497. 

— tiglii, 383. 

— Valerianae, 427. 
Olive oil, 465. 
Opium, 261. 
Orange flowers, 453. 

— fruit, 453. 

— peel, 453. 
Ordeal bark, 574. 
Origanum, 507. 
Ortho-phenol-sulphonic 

acid, 567. 
Orexine hydrochloride, 

582. 
Ouabaine, 560. 
Ovi albumen, 536. 
— vitellus, 526 
Ox-gall, 523 
Oxymella, 30. 
Oxychinaseptol, 582. 
Oxytoxics, 101. 

Pack, cold, 106. 
— hot, 107. 
Paint, 30. 
Pancreatin, 583. 
Papaver 552. 
Paraffin, 552. 
Para acetphenetilin, 553. 
Paracotoin, 572. 
Paramorphine, 581. 
Paraguay tea, 294. 
Paraldehydum, 552. 



INDEX. 



66 



Parasiticides, 41. 

Paregoric, 264. 

Pareira, 516. 

Parish's food, 170, 583. 

Paste, 30. 

Pastillus, 30. 

Pearl barley, 547. 

Pennyroyal, 425. 

Pental, 583. 

Pepo, 479. 

Pepper, 411. 

Peppermint, 420. 

Pepsinum saccharatum, 524. 

Percolation, 14. 

Pedes, 30. 

Peroxide of hydrogen, 578. 

Pessus, 30. 

Petrolatum, 512. 

Petroleum benzin, 511. 

Pharmaceutical processes, 

13- 

Pharmacognosy, definition, 

9 
Pharmacology, 30. 
— definition, 9. 
Pharmacopoeia, definition 10. 
— preparations of the, 17. 
Pharmacy, 10. 
— definition, 9. 
Phenacetine, 553. 
Phenazonum, 537. 
Phenocoll hydrochloride, 584 
Phenol, 250. 
Phenylacetamide, 534. 
Phenyl-dimethyl-pyrazolone 

537- 
Phosphorus, 194. 
Physostigma, 302. 
Physostigmine salicylate, 

303. 
Phytolacca, 369. 
Pichi, 584. 
Picrotoxin, 483. 
Pig men turn, 30. 
Pilocarpine hydrochloras, 

3i5. 
Pilocarpus, 315. 
Pilulae, 22. 
Pimenta, 411. 
Pink Root, 481. 
Pnus larix, 557. 
— sylvestris, 557. 



Piscidia, 585. 
Piper, 411. 
Piperine, 412. 
Piperazine, 585. 
Pipsissewa, 521. 
Pix Burgundica, 398. 
— liquida, 396. 
Plasma, action on, 42. 
Plasters, 19. 
Pleurisy root, 346. 
Plumbum, 140. 
Plummer's pill, 175. 
Pneumogastric, action on, 

48. 
Podophyllin, 38 . 
Podophyllum, 387. 
j Poison ivy, 503. 
— nut, 296. 
Pomegranate, 478. 
Poppy petals, 552. 
Porphyroxine, 339. 
Posology, 31. 
Potassa Sulphurata, 212. 
Potassii bromidum, 205. 
— iodidum, 202. 
Potassium, 108. 
Powders, 25. 
Preparations standardized, 

14. 
Prescribing, 33. 
Prescription, 36. 
Prickly ash, 515. 
Primary action, 38. 
Prinos, 464. 
Prune, 367. 

Prunus virginiana, 499. 
Prussic acid, 258. 
Pterocarpi lignum, 568. 
Puccine, 339. 
Pullna, 82. 
Pulsatilla, 339. 
Pulveres, 22. 
Pumpkin, 479. 
Pupil, action on, 98. 
Purgatives, 80, 414. 
Pustulants, 51. 
Pyrethrum, 408. 
Pyrogallic acid, 565. 
Pyroxylin, 509. 

Quassia., 448. 
Querelas alba, 512. 



Quillaia, 513. 
Queen's root, 571. 
Quince seed, 473. 
Quinine, 350. 

Raisins, 563. 

Rash, drugs producing a, 56. 

Raspberry, 506. 

Rational therapeutics, 9. 

Red corpuscles, action on, 

43- 
Red gum, 543. 
— lotion, 150. 
— precipitate, 173. 
— saunders, 568. 
Refrigerants, 71. 
Remote action, 38. 
Resin, 399. 
Resins, 12. 
Resorcin, 585. 
Respiration, action, 63. 
Respiratory centre, 65. 
Rhamni frangulae cortex, 

377- 
— purshianse cortex, 541. 
Rhatany, 459. 
Rheum, 372. 
Rhoeados petala, 552. 
Rhubarb, 372. 
Rhus Glabra, 462 . 
— toxicodendron, 503. 
Roborans plaster, 159. 
Rosa gallica, 504. 
— centifolia, 504, 
Rosae caninae fructus, 558. 
Rosemary, 405. 
Rose petals, 504. 
Rosin, 399. 
Rottlera, 479. 
Rubefacients, 50. 
Rubinat, 82. 
Rubus, 463. 
— idseus, 506. 
Rue, 444. 
Rumex, 464. 

Sabadilla, 334. 
Sabina, 443. 

Saccharated pepsin, 524. 
Saccharin, 558. 
Saccharum, 505. - 
— lactis, 523. 



6o6 



INDEX. 



Sacred bark, 541. 

Saffron, 508. 

Sage, 507. 

St. Ignatius bean, 296. 

Sal alembroth, 565. 

— ammoniac, 128. 

Salinaphthol, 567. 

Sal volatile, 128. 

Salicin, 360. 

Saline Purgatives, 82. 

Salivary glands, action on* 

69. 
Salix, 360. 
Salol, 586. 
Salt, 122. 
Salvia, 507 
Sambucus, 425. 
Sanguinaria, 338. 
Sanguinarine, 339. 
Santal oil, 441. 
Santalum rubrum, 508. 
Sanitas, 586. 
Santonica, 480. 
Santoninum, 480. 
Sapo, 465. 
— animalis, 559. 
— viridis, 465; 
Saponin, 337. 
Sarsaparilla, 516. 
Sassafras, 518. 
— medulla, 518. 
Sassy bark, 574. 
Savine, 443. 
Scaling, 14. 
Scammony, 380. 
Scilla, 327. 
Scillitoxin, 327. 
Scoparin, 587. 
Scoparius, 485. 
Scull cap, 520. 
Scutellaria, 520. 
Secondary action, 38. 
Seidlitz powder, 121. 
Senega, 337. 
Senna, 375. 
Sensory, nerves acting on, 

89. 
Serpentaria, 450. 
Sevum, 523. 
Sherry, 226. 
Sialogogues, 69. 
Silver, 144. 



Simulo, 587. 

Sinapis, 400. 

— alba, 400. 

— nigra, 400. 

Soap, 465, 559. 

Soap, constitution of, 11. 

Soda waters, 122. 

Sodii benzoas, 500. 

— bromidum, 205. 

— ethylas, 559. 

— hypophosphis, 196. 
— hyposulphis, 124. 
— iodidum, 202. 
— nitris, 559. 

— salicylas, 361. 

— santoninas, 480. 

— sulphocarbolas, 254. 

— valerianas, 559 
Sodio-theobromine-salicyl- 

ate, 574. 
Sodium, 117. 
Soft soap, 465. 
Somnal, 587. 
Soporifics, 94 
Soja beans, 587. 
Sozolic acid, 567. 
Sparteine, 587. 
Spermaceti, 526. 
Spigelia, 481. 

Spinal cord, action on, 90. 
Spirit of nitrous ether, 243. 
Spirits, 225. 
Spiritus, 22. 

— frumenti, 225. 

— vini gallici, 225. 
Sponging, cold, 106. 

— hot, 107. 
Squill, 327. 
Standardizing, 4. 
Staphisagria, 482. 
Starch, 512. 
Stavesacre, 482. 
Stearoptens, 12, 494. 
Stillingia, 517. 
Stomach, action on, 71. 
Stomachics, 72. 
Storax, 435. 
Stramonium 288. 
Strophanthus, 560. 
Strychnine, 296. 

— sulphate, 297. 
Styptics, 53. 



Styrax, 435. 
Succi, 30. 
Sudorifics, 54. 
Suet, 523. 
Sugar, 505 

— drugs causing it, 86. 

— of milk, 523. 
Sulphocarbol, 567. 
Sulphocarbolate of soda, 

254. 

Sulphoicthyolate of ammoni- 
um, 578. 

Sulphonal, 562. 

Sulphur, 209. 

Sulphuris iodidum, 212. 

Sumach, 462. 

Sumbul, 417. 

Suppositoria, 26. 

Suspensions, 13. 

Sweet Flag, 447. 

Sweet spirits of nitre, 243. 

Sydenham's laudanum, 581 

Symbols, 15. 

Sympathetic system, 100. 

Syrupi, 26, 

Tabacum, 311. 

Tabellse, 30. 

Tamar indien, 377. 

Tamarind, 367. 

Tanacetum, 444. 

Tannin, 455. 

Tar, 367. 

Tarasp, 122. 

Taraxacum, 452. 

Tartar emetic, 189. 

Tea, 293. 

Teeth, action on, 68. 

Terebene, 588. 

Terebinthina canadensis, 
400. 

Terpin hydrate, 589. 

Tertiary Amyl alcohol, 566. 

Tetraiodopyrrol, 578. 

Tetramethylthionine chlo- 
ride, 579. 

Thallin, 589. 

Thebaine, 581. 

Theine, 293. 

Therapeutics, 30. 

— definition, 9. 

Theriaca, 562. 



INDEX. 



607 



Thiocamf, 589, 

Thiophen, 579. 

Thiophen diiodide, 579. 

Thuja, 520. 

Thus Americanum, 563. 

Thymol, 497. 

Tinctura chloroformi et mor- 

phinae, 551. 
Tincturae, 26. 
Tobacco, 311. 
Tonga, 590. 
Tonic, 103. 

Toxicology, definition, 6. 
Tragacanth, 442. 
Treacle, 562. 
Tribromomethane, 568. 
Trimethylethylene, 583. 
Trinitrin, 550 
Triticum, 486. 
Triturationes, 27. 
Trochisci, 28. 
Tropine, 546. 
Turpentine, 393. 

Ulmus, 474. 
Unguenta, 28. 
Urari, 573. 
Urea, action on, 87. 
Urethane, 590. 
Urethra, drugs acting on, 60. 
Urinary System, drugs act- 
ing on, 56. 



I Urine, composition altered, 

59- 
j — rendered acid, 58. 

i alkaline, 58. 

I aseptic, 59. 

! Utilago, 490. 

Uterus, action on, 102. 

Uvae, 563. 

Uva ursi, 484. 

Vagus, action on, 48. 

Valerian, 426. 

Vanilla, 506. 

Vapores, 30. 

Vaselinum, 30. 

Vaso-motor centre, action 

on, 52. 
Vegetable drugs, 261. 
Veratrine, 334. 
Veratroidine, 333. 
Veratrum viride, 332. 
— sabadilla, 334. 
Vermicides, 41. 
Vermifuges, 41. 
Vesicants, 50. 
Vessels, action on, 49. 
Viburnum, 521. 
Villacabras, 82. 
Vina, 28, 

Viola tricolor, 369. 
Vinum, 247. 
Virginia prune, 499. 



Virginia snake root, 450. 
Vitellus, 526. 
Volatile oils, 12, 442. 

Wahoo, 391. 
Warburg's Tincture, 359. 
Water, 104. 

— distilled, 104. 
Wax, 529. 
Weights, 13. 

White corpuscles, action on, 

44. 

Willow, 360. 
Witchhazel, 462. 
Wines, 28, 247. 
Wood wool, 590. 
Wormwood, 425. 
Wourali, 593 

Xanthothylon, 515. 

Yeast, 563. 
Yellow wash, 174. 

— dock, 464. 
Yolk of egg, 526. 

Zinci Oleatum, 564. 

— sulphocarbolas, 563. 

— valerianas, 427. 
Zincum, 147. 
Zingiber, 416. 
Zymine, 583- 



CATALOGUE No. 7. 



' JULY, 1892. 



A CATALOGUE 

OF 

Books for Students. 

INCLUDING THE 

? QUIZ-COMPENDS ? 





CONTENTS. 




PAGE 


PAGE 


New Series of Manuals, 2,3,4,5 


Obstetrics 10 


Anatomy, 


. 6 


Pathology, Histology, . .11 


Biology, 


. II 


Pharmacy, . . . .12 


Chemistry, . 


. 6 


Physical Diagnosis, . .11 


Children's Diseases, . 


• 7 


Physiology, . . . . n 


Dentistry, 


, 8 


Practice of Medicine, . n, 12 


Dictionaries, 


8, 16 


Prescription Books, . . 12 


Eye Diseases, 


. 8 


?Quiz-Compends ? . 14,15 


Electricity, . 


• 9 


Skin Diseases, . . .12 


Gynaecology, 


. 10 


Surgery and Bandaging, . 13 


Hygiene, 


• 9 


Therapeutics, . . ,9 


Materia Medica, . 


• 9 


Urine and Urinary Organs, 13 


Medical Jurisprudence, 


• 9 


Venereal Diseases, . . 13 


Nervous Diseases, 


. 10 






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zette. 

" As it is said of some men, so it might be said of some books, 
that they are 'born to greatness.' This new volume has, we 
believe, a mission, particularly in the hands of the younger 
members of the profession. In these days of prolixity in medical 
literature, it is refreshing to meet with an author who knows both 
what to say and when he has said it. The work of Dr. Goodhart 
(admirably conformed, by Dr. Starr, to meet American require- 
ments) is the nearest approach to clinical teaching without the 
actual presence of clinical material that we have yet seen." — New 
York Medical Record, 

Price of each Book, Cloth, $3.00 ; Leather, $3.50. 



THE NEW SERIES OF MANUALS. 



No. 6. PRACTICAL THERAPEUTICS. 

FOURTH EDITION, WITH AN INDEX OF DISEASES. 

Practical Therapeutics, considered with reference to 
Articles of the Materia Medica. Containing, also, an 
Index of Diseases, with a list of the Medicines 
applicable as Remedies. By Edward John Waring, 
M.D., f.r.c.p. Fourth Edition. Rewritten and Re- 
vised by Dudley W. Buxton, m.d., Asst. to the Prof, 
of Medicine at University College Hospital. 

" We wish a copy could be put in the hands of every Student or 
Practitioner in the country. In our estimation, it is the best book 
of the kind ever written." — N. Y. Medical Journal. 

" Dr. Waring's Therapeutics has long been known as one of the 
most thorough and valuable of medical works. The amount of 
actual intellectual labor it represents is immense. . . . An in- 
dex of diseases, with the remedies appropriate for their treatment, 
closes the volume." — Boston Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

" The plan of this work is an admirable one, and one well calcu- 
lated to meet the wants of busy practitioners. ^ There is a remark- 
able amount of information, accompanied with judicious comments, 
imparted in a concise yet agreeable style." — Medical Record. 

No. 7. MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE AND 
TOXICOLOGY. 

THIRD REVISED EDITION. 

By John J. Reese, m.d., Professor of Medical Jurispru- 
dence and Toxicology in the University of Pennsyl- 
vania ; President of the Medical Jurisprudence Society* 
of Phila. ; Third Edition, Revised and Enlarged. 

" This admirable text-book." — Amer.Jour. of Med. Sciences. 

" We lay this volume aside, after a careful perusal of its pages, 
with the profound impression that it should be in the hands of every 

doctor and lawyer. It fully meets the wants of all students 

He has succeeded in admirably condensing into a handy volume all 
the essential points." — Cincinnati Lancet and Clinic, 

" The book before us will, we think, be found to answer the ex- 
pectations of the student or practitioner seeking a manual of juris- 
prudence, and the call for a second edition is a flattering testimony 
to the value of the author's present effort. The medical portion 
of this volume seems to be uniformly excellent, leaving little for 
adverse criticism. The information on the subject matter treated 
has been carefully compiled, in accordance with recent knowledge. 
The toxicological portion appears specially excellent. Of that por- 
tion of the work treating of the legal relations of the practitioner 
and medical witness, we can express a generally favorable ver- 
dict." — Physician and Surgeon, Ann Arbor, Mich. 

Price of each Book, Cloth, $3,00 ; Leather, $3.50. 



6 STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 

ANATOMY. 

Macalister's Human Anatomy. 816 Illustrations. A new 
Text-book for Students and Practitioners, Systematic and Topo- 
graphical, including the Embryology, Histology and Morphology 
of Man. With special reference to the requirements of 
Practical Surgery and Medicine. With 816 Illustrations, 
400 of which are original. Octavo. Cloth, 7.50; Leather, 8.50 

Ballou's Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology. Illustrated. 
By Wm. R. Ballou, m.d., Professor of Equine Anatomy at New 
York College of Veterinary Surgeons. 29 graphic Illustrations. 
i2mo. Cloth, 1. 00; Interleaved for notes, 1.25 

Hold en's Anatomy. A manual of Dissection of the Human 
Body. Fifth Edition. Enlarged, with Marginal References and 
over 200 Illustrations. Octavo. 

Bound in Oilcloth, for the Dissecting Room, $4.50. 
" No student of Anatomy can take up this book without being 
pleased and instructed. Its Diagrams are original, striking and 
suggestive, giving more at a glance than pages of text description. 
* * * The text matches the illustrations in directness of prac- 
tical application and clearness of detail." — New York Medical 
Record. 

Holden's Human Osteology. Comprising a Description of the 
Bones, with Colored Delineations of the Attachments of the 
Muscles. The General and Microscopical Structure of Bone and 
its Development. With Lithographic Plates and Numerous Illus- 
trations. Seventh Edition. 8vo. Cloth, 6.00 

Holden's Landmarks, Medical and Surgical. 4th ed. Clo., 1.25 

Heath's Practical Anatomy. Sixth London Edition. 24 Col- 
ored Plates, and nearly 300 other Illustrations. Cloth, 5.00 

Potter's Compend of Anatomy. Fifth Edition. Enlarged. 
16 Lithographic Plates. 117 Illustrations. See Page 14. 

Cloth, 1.00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

CHEMISTRY. 

Bartley's Medical Chemistry. Second Edition. A text-book 
prepared specially for Medical, Pharmaceutical and Dental Stu- 
dents. With 50 Illustrations, Plate of Absorption Spectra and 
Glossary of Chemical Terms. Revised and Enlarged. Cloth, 2.50 

Trimble. Practical and Analytical Chemistry. A Course in 
Chemical Analysis, by Henry Trimble, Prof, of Analytical Chem- 
istry in the Phila. College of Pharmacy. Illustrated. Fourth 
Edition, Enlarged. 8vo. Cloth, 1.50 

MBf" See pages 2 to 5 for list 0/ Students' Manuals . 



STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 7 

Chemistry : — Continued. 

Bloxam's Chemistry, Inorganic and Organic, with Experiments. 
Seventh Edition. Enlarged and Rewritten. 281 Illustrations. 

Cloth, 4.50; Leather, 5.50 

Richter's Inorganic Chemistry. A text-book for Students. 
Third American, from Fifth German Edition. Translated by 
Prof. Edgar F. Smith, ph.d. 89 Wood Engravings and Colored 
Plate of Spectra. Cloth, 2.00 

Richter's Organic Chemistry, or Chemistry of the Carbon 
Compounds. Illustrated. Second Edition. Cloth, 4.50 

Symonds. Manual of Chemistry, for the special use of Medi- 
cal Students. By Brandreth Symonds, a.m., m.d., Asst. 
Physician Roosevelt Hospital, Out- Patient Department; Attend- 
ing Physician Northwestern Dispensary, New York. i2mo. 

Cloth, 2.00 

Leffmann's Compend of Chemistry. Inorganic and Organic. 
Including Urinary Analysis. Third Edition. Revised. 

Cloth, 1.00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Leffmann and Beam. Progressive Exercises in Practical 
Chemistry. 121110. Illustrated. Cloth, 1.00 

Muter. Practical and Analytical Chemistry. Fourth Edi- 
tion. Revised, to meet the requirements of American Medical 
Colleges, by Prof. C. C. Hamilton. Illustrated. Cloth, 2.00 

Holland. The Urine, Common Poisons, and Milk Analysis, 
Chemical and Microscopical. For Laboratory Use. Fourth 
Edition, Enlarged. Illustrated. Cloth, 1.00 

Van Niiys. Urine Analysis. Illus. Cloth, 2.00 

Wolff's Applied Medical Chemistry. By Lawrence Wolff, 
m.d., Dem. of Chemistry in Jefferson Medical College. Clo. f 1.00 

CHILDREN. 

Qoodhart and Starr. The Diseases of Children. Second 
Edition. By J. F. Goodhart, m.d., Physician to the Evelina 
Hospital for Children ; Assistant Physician to Guy's Hospital, 
London. Revised and Edited by Louis Starr, m.d., Clinical 
Professor of Diseases of Children in the Hospital of the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania; Physician to the Children's Hospital, 
Philadelphia. Containing many Prescriptions and Formulae, 
conforming to the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, Directions for making 
Artificial Human Milk, for the Artificial Digestion of Milk, etc. 
Illustrated. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

Hatfield. Diseases of Children. By M. P. Hatfield, m.d., 
Professor of Diseases of Children, Chicago Medical College. 
Colored Plate. i2mo. Cloth, 1. 00; Interleaved, 1.25 

4^* See pages 14 and 15 for list of f Quiz- Comp ends? 



8 STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 

Children: — Continued. 
Starr. Diseases of the Digestive Organs in Infancy and 
Childhood. With chapters on the Investigation of Disease, 
and on the General Management of Children. By Louis Starr, 
m.d., Clinical Professor of Diseases of Children in the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania. Ulus. Second Edition. Cloth, 2.25 

DENTISTRY. 

Fillebrown. Operative Dentistry. 330 Illus. Cloth, 2.50 

Flagg's Plastics and Plastic Filling. 4th Ed. Cloth, 4.00 
Gorgas. Dental Medicine. Fourth Edition. Cloth, 3.50 

Harris. Principles and Practice of Dentistry. Including 
Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Therapeutics, Dental Surgery 
and Mechanism. Twelfth Edition. Revised and enlarged by 
Professor Gorgas. 1028 Illustrations. Cloth, 7.00 ; Leather, 8.00 
Richardson's Mechanical Dentistry. Fifth Edition. 569 
Illustrations. 8vo. Cloth, 4.50; Leather, 5.50 

Sewill. Dental Surgery. 200 Illustrations. 3d Ed. Clo., 3.00 
Taft's Operative Dentistry. Dental Students and Practitioners. 
Fourth Edition. 100 Illustrations. Cloth, 4.25 ; Leather, 5.00 
Talbot. Irregularities of the Teeth, and their Treatment. 
Illustrated. 8vo. Second Edition. Cloth, 3.00 

Tomes' Dental Anatomy. Third Ed. 191 Illus. Cloth, 4.00 
Tomes' Dental Surgery. 3d Edition. 292 Illus. Cloth, 5.00 
Warren. Compend of Dental Pathology and Dental Medi- 
cine. Illustrated. Cloth, 1. 00; Interleaved, 1.25 

DICTIONARIES. 

Gould's New Medical Dictionary. Containing the Definition 
and Pronunciation of all words in Medicine, with many useful 
Tables etc. y 2 Dark Leather, 3.25 ; y 2 Mor., Thumb Index, 4.25 

Harris' Dictionary of Dentistry. Fifth Edition. Completely 
revised by Prof. Gorgas. Cloth, 5.00; Leather, 6.00 

Cleaveland's Pronouncing Pocket Medical Lexicon. Small 
pocket size. Cloth, red edges .75 ; pocket-book style, 1.00 

Longley's Pocket Dictionary. The Student's Medical Lexicon, 
giving Definition and Pronunciation , with an Appendix giving 
Abbreviations used in Prescriptions, Metric Scale of Doses, etc. 
24mo. Cloth, 1. 00; pocket-book style, 1.25 

EYE. 

Hartridge on Refraction. 5th Edition. Illus. Cloth, 2.00 

Swanzy. Diseases of the Eye and their Treatment. 158 

Illustrations. Fourth Edition. Cloth, 3 00 

Fox and Gould. Compend of Diseases of the Eye and 
Refraction. 2d Ed. Enlarged. 71 Illus. 39 Formulae. 

Cloth, 1. 00 ; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

See pages 2 to 5 for list 0/ Students* Manuals. 



STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 9 

ELECTRICITY. 

Bigelow. Plain Talks on Medical Electricity. Cloth, i.oo 

Mason's Compend of Medical Electricity. Cloth, i.oo 

Steavenson and Jones. Medical Electricity. A Practical 

Handbook. Just Ready. Illustrated. i2mo. Cloth, 2.50 

HYGIENE. 

Coplin's Practical Hygiene. By W. M. L. Coplin, Adjunct 
Professor of Hygiene, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 
Illustrated. In Press. 

Parkes' (Ed. A.) Practical Hygiene. Seventh Edition, en- 
larged. Illustrated. 8vo. Cloth, 4.50 

Parkes' (L. C.) Manual of Hygiene and Public Health. 
Second Edition. i2mo. Cloth, 2.50 

Wilson's Handbook of Hygiene and Sanitary Science. 
Seventh Edition. Revised and Illustrated. Cloth, 3.25 

MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS. 

Potter's Compend of Materia Medica, Therapeutics and 
Prescription Writing. Fifth Edition, revised and improved. 
See Page if. Cloth, 1.00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Biddle's Materia Medica. Eleventh Edition. By the late 
John B. Biddle, m.d. Revised by Clement Biddle, m.d., 8vo, 
illustrated. Cloth, 4.25; Leather, 5.00 

Potter. Handbook of Materia Medica, Pharmacy and 
Therapeutics. Including Action of Medicines, Special Thera- 
peutics, Pharmacology, etc. By Saml. O. L. Potter, m.d., 
m.r.c.p. (Lond.), Professor of the Practice of Medicine in 
Cooper Medical College, San Francisco. Third Revised and 
Enlarged Edition. 8vo. Cloth, 4.00; Leather, 5.00 

White and Wilcox. Materia Medica, Pharmacy, Phar- 
macology, and Therapeutics. A Handbook for Students. 
By Win. Hale White, m.d., f.r.c.p., etc., Physician to and 
Lecturer on Materia Medica, Guy's Hospital. Revised by 
Reynold W. Wilcox, m.d., Professor of Clinical Medicine at the 
New York Post Graduate Medical School, Assistant Physician 
Bellevue Hospital, etc. American Edition. In Press. 

MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE. 
Reese. A Text-book of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxi- 
cology. By John J. Reese, m.d., Professor of Medical Juris- 
prudence and Toxicology in the Medical Department of the 
University of Pennsylvania ; President of the Medical Juris- 
prudence Society of Philadelphia; Physician to St. Joseph's 
Hospital ; Corresponding Member of The New York Medico- 
legal Society. Third Edition. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

$&- See pages 14 and ij for list 0/ f Quiz- Compends ? 



10 STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 

NERVOUS DISEASES. 

Gowers. Manual of Diseases of the Nervous System. 
A Complete Text-book. By William R. Gowers, m.d., Prof. 
Clinical Medicine, University College, London. Physician to 
National Hospital for the Paralyzed and Epileptic. Second 
Edition. Revised, Enlarged, and in many parts Rewritten. 
With many new Illustrations. Octavo. 

Vol. I. Diseases of the Nerves and Spinal Cord. 616 
pages. Cloth, 3.50 

Vol. II. Diseases of the Brain and Cranial Nerves. 
General and Functional Diseases. Nearly Ready. 

Ormerod. Diseases of Nervous System, Student's Guide to. 
By J. A. Ormerod, m.d. , Oxon.,F.R.c.P. (London), Member Path- 
ological, Clinical, Ophthamological, and Neurological Societies, 
Physician to National Hospital for Paralyzed and Epileptic and 
to City of London Hospital for Diseases of the Chest, Demon- 
strator of Morbid Anatomy, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, etc. 
With 75 Wood Engravings. Cloth, 2.00 

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY. 

Davis. A Manual of Obstetrics. By Edw. P. Davis, Dem- 
onstrator of Obstetrics, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 
Colored Plates, and 130 other Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, 2.00 

Byford. Diseases of Women. The Practice of Medicine and 
Surgery, as applied to the Diseases and Accidents Incident to 
Women. By W. H. Byford, a.m., m.d., Professor of Gynaecology 
in Rush Medical College and of Obstetrics in the Woman's Med : 
ical College, etc., and Henry T. Byford, m.d., Surgeon to the 
Woman's Hospital of Chicago. Fourth Edition. Revised and 
Enlarged. 306 Illustrations, over 100 of which are original. 
Octavo. 832 pages. Cloth, 5.00 ; Leather, 6.00 

Lewers' Diseases of Women. A Practical Text-book. 139 
Illustrations. Second Edition. Cloth, 2.50 

Parvin's Winckel's Diseases of Women. Second Edition. 
Including a Section on Diseases of the Bladder and Urethra. 
150 Illus. Revised. Seepages. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

Morris. Compend of Gynaecology. Illustrated. Cloth, 1.00 

Winckel's Obstetrics. A Text-book on Midwifery, includ- 
ing the Diseases of Childbed. By Dr. F. Winckel, Professor 
of Gynaecology, and Director of the Royal University Clinic for 
Women, in Munich. Authorized Translation, by J. Clifton 
Edgar, m.d., Lecturer on Obstetrics, University Medical Col- 
lege, New York, with nearly 200 handsome Illustrations, the 
majority of which are original. 8vo. Cloth, 6.00; Leather, 7.00 

Landis' Compend of Obstetrics. Illustrated. 4th edition, 
enlarged. Cloth, 1.00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Galabin's Midwifery. By A. Lewis Galabin, m.d., f.r.c.p. 
227 Illustrations. See Page 3. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

4SF" See Pages 2 to 5 for Kst of New Manuals. 



STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 11 



PATHOLOGY. HISTOLOGY. BIOLOGY. 

Bowlby. Surgical Pathology and Morbid Anatomy, for 
Students. 135 Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, 2.00 

Davis' Elementary Biology. Illustrated. Cloth, 4.00 

Gilliam's Essentials of Pathology. A Handbook for Students. 
47 Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, 2.00 

*** The object of this book is to unfold to the beginner the funda- 
mentals of pathology in a plain, practical way, and by bringing 
them within easy comprehension to increase his interest in the study 
of the subject. 

Gibbes* Practical Histology and Pathology. Third Edition. 
Enlarged. i2mo. Cloth, 1.75 

Virchow's Post-Mortem Examinations. 3d Ed. Cloth, 1.00 

PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS. 

Fenwick. Student's Guide to Physical Diagnosis. 7th 

Edition. 117 Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, 2.25 

Tyson's Student's Handbook of Physical Diagnosis. Illus- 
trated. i2mo. Cloth, 1.25 

PHYSIOLOGY. 

Yeo's Physiology. Fifth Edition. The most Popular Stu- 
dents' Book. By Gerald F. Yeo, m.d., f.r.c.s., Professor of 
Physiology in King's College, London. Small Octavo. 758 
pages. 321 carefully printed Illustrations. With a Full 
Glossary and Index. See Page 3. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

Brubaker's Compend of Physiology. Illustrated. Sixth 
Edition. Cloth, 1. 00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Stirling. Practical Physiology, including Chemical and Ex- 
perimental Physiology. 142 Illustrations. Cloth, 2.25 

Kirke's Physiology. New 12th Ed. Thoroughly Revised and 
Enlarged. 502 Illustrations. Cloth, 4.00; Leather, 5.00 

Landois' Human Physiology. Including Histology and Micro- 
scopical Anatomy, and with special reference to Practical Medi- 
cine. Fourth Edition. Translated and Edited by Prof. Stirling. 
845 Illustrations. Cloth, 7.00; Leather, 8.00 

" With this Text-book at his command, no student could fail in 

his examination." — Lancet. 

Sanderson's Physiological Laboratory. Being Practical Ex- 
ercises for the Student. 350 Illustrations. 8vo. Cloth, 5.00 

PRACTICE. 

Taylor. Practice of Medicine. A Manual. By Frederick 
Taylor, m.d., Physician to, and Lecturer on Medicine at, Guy's 
Hospital, London ; Physician to Evelina Hospital for Sick Chil- 
dren, and Examiner in Materia Medica and Pharmaceutical 
Chemistry, University of London. Cloth, 4.00; Leather, 5.00 

4®* See pages 14 and 15 for list of ? Quiz-Compends t 



12 STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 

Practice : — Continued. 

Roberts' Practice. New Revised Edition. A Handbook 
of the Theory and Practice of Medicine. By Frederick T. 
Roberts, m.d., m.r.c.p., Professor of Clinical Medicine and 
Therapeutics in University College Hospital, London. Seventh 
Edition. Octavo. • Cloth, 5.50 ; Sheep, 6.50 

Hughes. Compend of the Practice of Medicine. 4th Edi- 
tion. Two parts, each, Cloth, 1.00; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Part i. — Continued, Eruptive and Periodical Fevers, Diseases 
of the Stomach, Intestines, Peritoneum, Biliary Passages, Liver, 
Kidneys, etc., and General Diseases, etc. 

Part ii. — Diseases of the Respiratory System, Circulatory 
System and Nervous System ; Diseases of the Blood, etc. 

Physicians* Edition. Fourth Edition. Including a Section 
on Skin Diseases. With Index. 1 vol. Full Morocco, Gilt, 2.50 

From John A. Robinson, M.D., Assistant to Chair 0/ Clinical 
Medicine, now Lecturer on Materia Medica, Rush Medical Col- 
lege, Chicago. 
" Meets with my hearty approbation as a substitute for the 

ordinary note books almost universally used by medical students. 

It is concise, accurate, well arranged and lucid, . . . just the 

thing for students to use while studying physical diagnosis and the 

more practical departments of medicine." 

PRESCRIPTION BOOKS. 

Wythe's Dose and Symptom Book. Containing the Doses 
and Uses of all the principal Articles of the Materia Medica, etc. 
Seventeenth Edition. Completely Revised and Rewritten. Just 
Ready. 32mo. Cloth, 1.00; Pocket-book style, 1.25 

Pereira's Physician's Prescription Book. Containing Lists 
of Terms, Phrases, Contractions and Abbreviations used in 
Prescriptions Explanatory Notes, Grammatical Construction ot 
Prescriptions, etc., etc. By Professor Jonathan Pereira, m.d. 
Sixteenth Edition. 32mo. Cloth, 1. 00; Pocket-book style, 1.25 

PHARMACY. 

Stewart's Compend of Pharmacy. Based upon Remington's 
Text-book of Pharmacy. Third Edition, Revised. With new 
Tables, Index, Etc. Cloth, 1.00 ; Interleaved for Notes, 1.25 

Robinson. Latin Grammar of Pharmacy and Medicine. 
By H. D. Robinson, ph.d., Professor of Latin Language and 
Literature, University of Kansas, Lawrence. With an Intro- 
duction by L. E. Sayre, ph.g., Professor of Pharmacy in, and 
Dean of, the Dept. of Pharmacy, University of Kansas. i2mo. 

Cloth, 2.00 

SKIN DISEASES. 

Anderson, (McCall) Skin Diseases. A complete Text-book, 
with Colored Plates and numerous Wood Engravings. 8vo. 

Cloth, 4.50; Leather, 5.50 

Van Harlingen on Skin Diseases. A Handbook of the Dis- 
eases of the Skin, their Diagnosis and Treatment (arranged alpha- 
betically). By Arthur Van Harlingen, m.d., Clinical Lecturer 
on Dermatology, Jefferson Medical College; Prof, of Diseases of 
the Skin in the Philadelphia Polyclinic. 2d Edition. Enlarged. 
With colored and other plates and illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, 2.50 
&&- See pages 2 to 5 for list 0/ New Manuals. 



STUDENTS' TEXT-BOOKS AND MANUALS. 13 
SURGERY AND BANDAGING. 

Moullin's Surgery. 500 Illustrations (some colored), 200 of 
which are original. Cloth, net 7.00; Leather, net 8.00 

Jacobson. Operations in Surgery. A Systematic Handbook 
for Physicians, Students and Hospital Surgeons. By W. H. A. 
Jacobson, b.a. Oxon., f.r.c.s. Eng. ; Ass't Surgeon Guy's Hos- 
pital ; Surgeon at Royal Hospital for Children and Women, etc. 
199 Illustrations. 1006 pages. 8vo. Cloth. 5.00; Leather, 6.00 

Heath's Minor Surgery, and Bandaging. Ninth Edition. 142 
Illustrations. 60 Formulae and Diet Lists. Cloth, 2.00 

Horwitz's Compend of Surgery, Minor Surgery and 
Bandaging, Amputations, Fractures, Dislocations, Surgical 
Diseases, and the Latest Antiseptic Rules, etc., with Differential 
Diagnosis and Treatment. By Orville Hokwitz, b.s., m.d., 
Demonstrator of Surgery, Jefferson Medical College. 4th edition. 
Enlarged and Rearranged. 136 Illustrations and 84 Formulae. 
i2mo. Cloth, 1. 00 ; Interleaved for the addition of Notes, 1.25 
***The new Section on Bandaging and Surgical Dressings, con- 
sists of 32 Pages and 41 Illustrations. Every Bandage of any 
importance is figured. This, with the Section on Ligation of 
Arteries, forms an ample Text-book for the Surgical Laboratory. 

Walsham. Manual of Practical Surgery. Third Edition. 
By Wm. J. Walsham, m.d., f.r c.s., Asst. Surg, to, and Denis 
of Practical Surg, in, St. Bartholomew's Hospital; Surgeon to 
Metropolitan Free Hospital, London. With 318 Engravings. 
See Page 2. Cloth, 3.00; Leather, 3.50 

URINE, URINARY ORGANS, ETC. 

Holland. The Urine, and Common Poisons and The 
Milk. Chemical and Microscopical, for Laboratory Use. Illus- 
trated. Fourth Edition. i2mo. Interleaved. Cloth, 1.00 

Ralfe. Kidney Diseases and Urinary Derangements. 42 Illus- 
trations. i2mo. 572 pages. Cloth, 2.75 

Marshall and Smith. On the Urine. The Chemical Analysis of 
the Urine. By John Marshall, m.d., Chemical Laboratory, Univ. 
of Penna; and Prof. E. F. Smith, ph. d. Col. Plates. Cloth, 1. 00 

Memminger. Diagnosis by the Urine. Illustrated. 

Cloth, 1. 00 

Tyson. On the Urine. A Practical Guide to the Examination 
of Urine. With Colored Plates and Wood Engravings. 7th Ed. 
Enlarged. 121110. Cloth, 1.50 

Van Niiys, Urine Analysis. Ulus. Cloth, 2.00 

VENEREAL DISEASES. 

Hill and Cooper. Student's Manual of Venereal Diseases, 
with Formulae. Fourth Edition. i2mo. Cloth, 1.00 

4^* See pages 14 and ij for list of ? Quiz-Compends ? 



NEW AND REVISED EDITIONS. 

PQUIZ-COMPENDS? 

The Best Compends for Students' Use 
in the Quiz Class, and when Pre- 
paring for Examinations. 

Compiled in accordance with the latest teachings of promi- 
nent lecturers and the most popular Text-books. 

They form a most complete, practical and exhaustive 
set of manuals, containing information nowhere else col- 
lected in such a condensed, practical shape. Thoroughly 
up to the times in every respect, containing many new 
prescriptions and formulae, and over two hundred and 
fifty illustrations, many of which have been drawn and 
engraved specially for this series. The authors have had 
large experience as quiz-masters and attaches of colleges, 
with exceptional opportunities for noting the most recent 
advances and methods. 

Cloth, each $1.00. Interleaved for Notes, $1.25. 

No. 1. HUMAN ANATOMY, " Based upon Gray." Fifth 
Enlarged Edition, including Visceral Anatomy, formerly 
published separately. 16 Lithograph Plates, New 
Tables and 117 other Illustrations. By Samuel O. L. 
Potter, m.a., m.d., m.r.c.p. (Lond.), late A. A. Surgeon TJ. S. 
Army, Professor of Practice, Cooper Medical College, San Fran- 
cisco. 
Nos. 2 and 3. PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. Fourth Edi* 
tion. By Daniel E. Hughes, m.d., Demonstrator of Clinical 
Medicine in Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. In two parts. 
Part I. — Continued, Eruptive and Periodical Fevers, Diseases 
of the Stomach, Intestines, Peritoneum, Biliary Passages, Liver, 
Kidneys, etc. (including Tests for Urine), General Diseases, etc. 

Part II. — Diseases of the Respiratory System (including Phy- 
sical Diagnosis), Circulatory System and Nervous System; Dis- 
eases of the Blood, etc. 

*#* These little books can be regarded as a full set of notes upon 
the Practice of Medicine, containing the Synonyms, Definitions, 
Causes, Symptoms, Prognosis, Diagnosis, Treatment, etc., of each 
disease, and including a number of prescriptions hitherto unpub- 
lished. 

No. 4. PHYSIOLOGY, including Embryology. Sixth 
Edition. By Albert P. Brubaker, m.d., Prof, of Physiology, 
Penn'a College of Dental Surgery ; Demonstrator of Physiology 
in Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. Revised, Enlarged, 
with new Illustrations. 

No. 5. OBSTETRICS. Illustrated. Fourth Edition. By 
Henry G. Landis, m.d., Prof, of Obstetrics and Diseases of 
Women, in Starling Medical College, Columbus, O. Revised 

Edition. New Illustrations. 



BLAKISTON'S ? QUIZ-COMPENDS ? 

No. 6. MATERIA MEDICA, THERAPEUTICS AND 
PRESCRIPTION WRITING. Fifth Revised Edition. 

With especial Reference to the Physiological Action of Drugs, 
and a complete article on Prescription Writing. Based on the 
Last Revision of the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, and including many 
unofficinal remedies. By Samuel O. L. Potter, m.a., m.d., 
m.r.c.p. (Lond.), late A. A. Surg. U. S. Army ; Prof, of Practice, 
Cooper Medical College, San Francisco. Improved and Enlarged, 
with Index. 

No. 7. GYNAECOLOGY. A Compend of Diseases of Women. 
By Henry Morris, m.d., Demonstrator of Obstetrics, Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia. 45 Illustrations. 

No. 8. DISEASES OF THE EYE AND REFRACTION, 

including Treatment and Surgery. By L. Webster Fox, m.d., 
Chief Clinical Assistant Ophthalmological Dept., Jefferson Med- 
ical College, etc., and Geo. M. Gould, m.d. 71 Illustrations, 39 
Formulae. Second Enlarged and Improved Edition. Index. 

No. 9. SURGERY, Minor Surgery and Bandaging. Illus- 
trated. Fourth Edition. Including Fractures, Wounds, 
Dislocations, Sprains, Amputations and other operations ; Inflam- 
mation, Suppuration, Ulcers, Syphilis, Tumors, Shock, etc. 
Diseases of the Spine, Ear, Bladder, Testicles, Anus, and 
other Surgical Diseases. By Orville Horwitz, a.m., m.d., 
Demonstrator of Surgery, Jefferson Medical College. Revised 
and Enlarged. 84 Formulae and 136 Illustrations. 

No. 10. CHEMISTRY. Inorganic and Organic. For Medical 
and Dental Students. Including Urinary Analysis and Medical 
Chemistry. By Henry Leffmann, m.d., Prof, of Chemistry in 
Penn'a College of Dental Surgery, Phila. Third Edition, Revised 
and Rewritten, with Index. 

No. 11. PHARMACY. Based upon " Remington's Text-book 
of Pharmacy." By F. E. Stewart, m.d., ph. g., Quiz-Master 
at Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. Third Edition, Revised. 

No. 12. VETERINARY ANATOMY AND PHYSIOL- 
OGY. 29 Illustrations. By Wm. R. Ballou, m.d., Prof, of 
Equine Anatomy at N. Y. College of Veterinary Surgeons. 

No. 13. DENTAL PATHOLOGY AND DENTAL MEDI- 
CINE. Containing all the most noteworthy points of interest 
to the Dental student. By Geo. W. Warren, d.d.s., Clinical 
Chief, Penn'a College of Dental Surgery, Philadelphia. Illus. 

No. 14. DISEASES OF CHILDREN. By Dr. Marcus P. 
Hatfield, Prof, of Diseases of Children, Chicago Medical 
College. Colored Plate. 

Bound in Cloth, $1. Interleaved, for the Addition of Notes, $1.25. 



These books are constantly revised to keep up with 
the latest teachings and discoveries, so that they contain 
all the new methods and principles. No series of books 
are so complete in detail, concise in language, or so well 
printed and bound. Each one forms a complete set of 
notes upon the subject under consideration. 

Illustrated Descriptive Circular Free. 



JUST PUBLISHED. 



GOULD'S NEW 

Medical Dictionary 




GOMPAGT. 

CONCISE. 

PRACTICAL. 

ACCURATE. 

COMPREHENSIVE 

UP TO DATE. 



It contains Tables of the Arteries, Bacilli, Gan- 
glia, Leucomaines, Micrococci, Muscles, 
Nerves, Plexuses, Ptomaines, etc., 
etc., that will be found of great 
use to the student. 



Small octavo, 520 pages, Half-Dark Leather, . $3.25 
With Thumb Index, Half Morocco, marbled edges, 4.25 



From J. M. DaCOSTA, M. D., Professor of Practice and 
Clinical Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 

"I find it an excellent work, doing credit to the learning and 
discrimination of the author*' 

*** Sample Pages free. 



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